June 2025 Natural Awakenings Chicago Magazine

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Publisher Peggy Malecki

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Peggy Malecki

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© 2025 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. Check with a healthcare professional regarding the appropriate use of any treatment.

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Afamiliar energy is in the air, the joyful shift as the Midwest eases into summer. After months of gray skies, wind chills, heavy coats and false springs, we’re stepping into an exciting new season of longer days, warmer mornings and lingering evenings. We’re back at farmers markets and neighborhood festivals, gathering with friends on patios and at outdoor concerts, working in the garden, biking by the lake and rolling down the proverbial windows to let the sunshine in. June and the summer ahead invite us to be fully present in our communities and within ourselves.

This time of year always brings me back to those final weeks of school, when summer vacation hovered just around the corner. I remember sitting in unairconditioned high school classrooms with windows open to a blooming courtyard, the scents of late spring drifting in during end-of-year lectures and final exams. The anticipation grew daily. Then came the final week, the final class, the final locker clean-out… and summer! Even now, I feel that same anticipation around Memorial Day, like the opening notes of a favorite song. Summer to me is a return to something essential, a time to renew, recharge and reconnect.

This month, while we’re focused on men’s health it’s a theme that reaches beyond demographics. Our wellness topics—including nutrition, longevity, skincare, emotional health, community support and inner strength in nature—may resonate with nearly everyone navigating the pace and pressures of everyday routines. Living in wellness isn’t a fixed destination; it’s a daily practice that evolves over time. The more we understand our own needs and responses, the more empowered we can become to support ourselves, our families and our communities—and to live a life that feels more joyful and connected. Self-awareness also helps us adapt and adjust along the way; what didn’t resonate yesterday might feel surprisingly helpful today.

From writer Carrie Jackson’s insights in “Expanding Our Healthspan” to Carl Greer’s reflections on the inner journey, Marlaina Donato’s look at “Healing the Split From Nature” and Dan Bulf's journey of realization and healing that the hole in his soul was in the shape of his father, we focus this month on conversations about health, well-living and self-care. You’ll also find tips on how skincare is health care, inspiration for crafting your own protein bars to fuel summer workouts and guidance to help you start a pollinator-friendly backyard with native plants. And throughout these pages, we spotlight local entrepreneurs and businesses that have a deep passion for supporting our community.

Once again, I encourage you to step outdoors every day and take in the unfolding of a fresh season. The summer solstice arrives this month, bringing the longest day of the year. Consider this your permission slip to stay outside well past the time the streetlights come on, waiting for the moment of nightfall when twilight gives way to true night. Observe the full moon, watch for fireflies or whistle back to the robins on a balmy June evening. Or wake really early to catch the pre-sunrise light of a solstice-season dawn, with coffee in hand, while the birds sing their morning chorus to welcome a brand-new day.

Wishing you a safe and joyful June, a bright solstice and a

Happy Father’s Day!

Peggy Malecki

Photo by Peggy Malecki

Cover image by by Nerea for Adobe Stock

Advertising & Submissions

16 Following the Signs: The Journey to Anaway Place 18 Forest Greens Juice Bar 20 Bartlett Tree Experts 22 Midwest Wildflowers in Blooom 26 Four Steps to Starting a Native Plant Garden 28 Healing the Split From Nature 30 Expanding Our Healthspan

Crafting Personal Fuel 38 Carl Greer on a Journey 40 The Father-Shaped Hole 42 Men's Skin Care is Health Care 44 Making Joyful Summer Memories

To advertise with Natural Awakenings Chicago or request a media kit, please contact us at 847-858-3697 or email Peggy@NAChicago.com Deadline for complete and finalized ads: the 14th of the month.

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Be There for Infinity’s Farewell Celebration

Celebrate the legacy and transformational impact of Infinity Foundation during its Closing Ceremony Celebration at 10 a.m. on June 14 in Highland Park. After 28 years of offering life-changing programs, empowering communities and inspiring personal growth, the organization is inviting the public to gather one final time to honor its journey and the thousands of lives it has touched. Although Infinity Foundation will no longer operate in its current form, the spirit of its work will continue to ripple throughout the world, encouraging higher consciousness for generations to come.

This free event includes lunch and is open to all, but registration is required.

Location: 1280 Old Skokie Rd., Highland Park. For more information or to register (required), visit InfinityFoundation.org. See ad in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

Experience Holistic Healing at Health Clarified’s Open House

The Harmonic Egg® is a patented geometric chamber that uses gentle light and sound energy to promote and encourage healing & wellness. It helps calm the nervous system, ease pain, reduce inflammation, and awaken the body’s natural ability to heal.

Settle into a zero-gravity chair and enjoy a session tailored specifically for your needs, surrounded by soothing color and high-resonance music designed to restore, heal and renew.

“I turned to Harmonic Egg – Naperville for support in recovering from an intense journey through tongue cancer treatment. My healing was rapid, profound, and continues to be sustained by the care and energy I received.” - Sally

Health Clarified invites the community to explore its innovative wellness offerings during an open house from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on June 21 at its Northbrook clinic. Guests can enjoy live demonstrations, giveaways, light refreshments and a chance to meet the growing team.

The event features hands-on experiences with popular holistic services including SoftWave Therapy, lymphatic enhancement therapy, exercise with oxygen therapy, BrainTap and AO Scans. Attendees can also sample modalities in the clinic’s energy room, such as pulsed electromagnetic field therapy, synchronicity wave and other restorative therapies.

Visitors will have the opportunity to meet two of the clinic’s newest team members: Dr. Colin Quinn, a chiropractor and SoftWave Therapy technician; and JoLynn Sanders, a licensed esthetician who offers custom facials and waxing. Her personalized skin care services are tailored to support natural beauty and healthy skin. Quinn, a Palmer College of Chiropractic graduate, specializes in several techniques including Thompson, Diversified and the Activator Method, and brings a strong background in nutrition and holistic care.

Location: 2165 Shermer Rd., Ste. A, Northbrook. For more information, call 224-344-8668, email Office@HealthClarifiedNow.com or visit HealthClarifiedNow.com. See ads on pages 19 and 33, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

Kim Henderson

Photo courtesy of Health Clarified

Photo courtesy of Infinity Foundation

“ Your gut health has a direct effect on how you feel.” says Reneé Barasch of Digestive Health Solutions. “Understand the struggles of your own microbiome, and create a plan to restore balance and feel better.”

Reneé’s practice is now offering BiomeFx Microbiome Testing ; a powerful tool to help reveal what’s going on in your gut. This DNA test identifies helpful and harmful microbes, and provides insights to improve digestion, energy, and support overall well-being.

Gut Health Resolved.

Let your own DNA point the way to your best health . This BiomeFx Testing

Kit pinpoints imbalances linked to bloating, acid reflux, constipation, fatigue, anxiety, skin concerns, and more. This results in personalized nutrition and lifestyle guidance –big steps toward lasting health. Reneé offers phone consultations that make expert support easy to achieve.

D ig e s t ive

Self-Realization Fellowship

Hosts Free 2025 Convocation

Self-Realization Fellowship announces its 2025 World Convocation, a free global event featuring a full week of yoga meditation, inspirational talks and devotional chanting. The event takes place June 22 to 28 and is open to all, either in person at the Westin Bonaventure Hotel, in Los Angeles, or online through a mobile or desktop app. Registration is free at Convocation.Yogananda.org.

This annual gathering draws thousands of participants from around the world to immerse themselves in the teachings of Paramahansa Yogananda, author of the spiritual classic Autobiography of a Yogi and founder of the Self-Realization Fellowship. Daily sessions will be led by monks and nuns and include topics such as Making Life a Spiritual Adventure, The Creative Power of Initiative and Creating an Inner Environment for Spiritual Progress. Participants can also attend guided meditations, devotional chanting sessions and fellowship events.

Optional in-person pilgrimage tours will visit SRF’s historic sites in Southern California, including the SRF Hollywood Temple and Encinitas Ashram Center. These tours require a fee to cover transportation and refreshments.

Yogananda, who transitioned in 1952, is credited with introducing kriya yoga to the West. He described yoga thusly: “Uniting the soul with Spirit is Yoga—reunion with that great Happiness everyone is seeking. Isn’t this a wonderful definition? In the ever-new Bliss of Spirit, you are convinced that the joy you feel is greater than any other happiness, and nothing can get you down.”

For more information, visit Convocation.Yogananda.org. See ads on pages 9 and 29, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

Tap Into 50 Years of Psychotronics

Innovation at Upcoming Conference

The United States Psychotronics Association, a nonprofit exploring mind-body technologies (“psycho” means mind; “tronics” means devices), will hold its Golden Anniversary Conference from July 17 through 20 at the Holiday Inn Chicago NW Crystal Lake Convention Center. The event is open to the public and includes a vendor area showcasing related products and services.

This 42nd in-person event features pre- and post-conference workshops and afternoon breakout sessions. The conference celebrates 50 years of blending scientific research with experiential wisdom and offers more than 20 expert speakers discussing topics such as near-death experiences (NDEs), remote viewing, scalar devices, psychic phenomena, ancient wisdom and radionics.

Keynote speaker Dannion Brinkley, renowned for his multiple NDEs, will highlight radionics—a tool that uses conscious intent to influence physical reality. Pete Radatti, an author who has sold more than 1 million books worldwide, leads a Radionics 101 workshop on Thursday.

Location: 800 S. Rte. 31, Crystal Lake. For more information or to register, visit Psychotronics.org. See ad on page 21.

Photo credits: Courtesy of Self-Realization Fellowship, Los Angeles, CA

Rocio Sagrado’s Pure Skin Care Available at Area Farmers Markets

Rocio Sagrado, a family-owned skin care brand committed to 100 percent pure, plantbased products, is once again a familiar presence at local farmers markets this season. Co-owners Jai Dewith and Juan Jones, who divide their time between the U.S. and Argentina, have spent more than 14 years perfecting their formulas using flowers and herbs handpicked from their own garden.

“Our products contain no preservatives, colorants, synthetics or parabens—nothing artificial. Everything is based on the belief that what you absorb in your skin has the same importance as what you eat,” says Dewith. “We must nourish our body on the inside and on the outside.”

Their product line features more than 38 offerings. Shoppers will find skin care essentials and holistic balms; deodorants; aromatherapeutic fragrances; and insect repellents designed to repel mosquitoes and combat ticks, fleas and lice.

Rocio Sagrado’s products are available at the Woodstock Farmers Market; Farmers Market+ at the Dole, in Crystal Lake; and Ravinia Farmers Market, in Highland Park, throughout the season.

For more information or to shop online, visit RocioSagrado.com. See ad on page 14 and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

Juan Jones and Jai Dewith

Yogananda

Photo courtesy Rocio Sagrudo

Thrive Mushrooms Featured at Local Farmers Markets This Summer

Thrive Mushrooms, a Certified Naturally Grown, family-owned farm in Kankakee, will be selling their products at five Chicago-area farmers markets this summer. Look for them starting in June at the Chicago South Loop (Thursdays and Saturdays), Chicago West Loop (Saturdays), Homewood (Saturdays), Tinley Park (Saturdays) and Naperville (Tuesdays) markets.

Thrive offers fresh, locally grown medicinal mushrooms including lion’s mane, oyster, shiitake and reishi. In addition to fresh mushrooms, they feature lion’s mane coffee—a blend of organic instant coffee, cacao and lion’s mane extract—along with herbal mushroom teas formulated to support digestion, immune function and overall wellness.

In addition to market offerings, their products are available online, including mushroom spawn and grow bags for home cultivation.

The farm was founded in 2020 by Nihat Kemal Tasyurek, building on decades of cultivation experience passed down by his father-inlaw, a biology teacher.

Visit individual market websites for times and locations. For more information or to order, call 312-978-2885, email Info@ThriveMushroomsllc.com or visit ThriveMushroom.com

See ad on page 35 and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

HolisticCenter

TheosoFest 2025 Now Accepting Vendor Applications

The Theosophical Society in America is now accepting vendor applications for TheosoFest 2025, its annual mind-body-spirit festival to be held on the organization’s beautiful 40-acre campus in Wheaton. The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on September 6.

TheosoFest offers a unique opportunity for vendors to showcase their goods and services to thousands of attendees. The festival features indoor spiritual talks, an outdoor holistic marketplace, family areas, garden tours and more.

The first TheosoFest was held in 1990 in conjunction with the Council for the Parliament of the World’s Religions. The event grows in popularity each year, drawing thousands of visitors.

Cost: Admission is free; parking is $5. Location: 1926 N. Main St., Wheaton. For more information or to apply to be a vendor, call 630-668-1571, ext. 315, email Info@Theosophical.org or visit Theosophical.org/theosofest. See ad on page 9 and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

Once a year, go someplace you’ve never been before. —Dalai Lama

Thursday, June 5, 7:00-8:00 pm Sound Bath

Saturday, June 14, 2:00-5:00 pm

Our Soul Journey in Earth & Planetary Spiritual Dimensions

Thursday, June 19, 7:00-9:00 pm Summer Solstice Ceremony

Saturday, June 21, 2:00-4:00 pm Empowering Empaths & Sensitives

Sunday, June 22, 2:00-5:00 pm Flower Essences & Astral Healings

Sunday, June 29, 2:00-4:00 pm Crystals For Manifesting

Step Into the Hidden World of Fungi This September

The Mycelium Mysteries: Women’s Mushroom Conference is scheduled for September 19 to 21 in Rosholt, Wisconsin. The conference will explore the crucial role fungi play as integral components of ecosystems. The focus will be on understanding fungi as the “grandmothers” silently influencing soil health and global culture, particularly at a time when mycology remains an underappreciated field.

“Our objective is to facilitate a connection between contemporary women and the knowledge held by their female ancestors, who possessed a deep understanding of the fungal world,” says founder Linda Conroy. “We are honored to host distinguished speakers, including ecologist and author Dr. Alison Pouliot; mycophile, author and photographer Barbora Batokova; and mycologist and biologist Sarah Foltz Jordan.”

In addition to valuable learning opportunities, the Mycelium Mysteries conference will offer enjoyable, rejuvenating and nourishing activities throughout the weekend.

Barbora Batokova Alison Pouliot Sarah Foltz Jordan

Photos courtesy Midwest Women's Herbal

Illuminate Naperville Returns in October

With a Brand-New Look

Illuminate Festivals will bring their signature blend of arts and wellness to the Chicago Marriott Naperville from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on October 12. The event will feature vetted intuitive readers, crystals, essential oils, original art, energy healing including reiki, crystal jewelry, luxurious spa products, handmade gifts, free workshops and more. Vendor applications are now being accepted.

“We are thrilled to show off our new logo,” says Judy Bazis, founder of Illuminate Festivals. “It is clean and strong, and features a bright yellow star—our North Star—to help guide each of us on our spiritual paths. After 10 years serving the holistic community in myriad locations, we chose to take the opportunity to create a fresh look and bring new energy to our events.”

Illuminate Festivals have become the ideal backdrop for self-discovery. Their aim is to raise awareness about holistic wellness, promote local healing practitioners’ products and services, and spread much-needed hope and joy.

Location: 1801 N. Naper Blvd., Naperville. For more information or to apply to be a vendor, visit IlluminateFestivals.com. See ad on page 41.

Vendors and Exhibitors Invited to Join 2025 Green Living Expo

McHenry County College is seeking eco-minded vendors and exhibitors for its 17th annual Green Living Expo, to take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on November 1 at the college campus in Crystal Lake.

The event attracts an engaged, sustainability-focused audience, offering an excellent opportunity for vendors to showcase their sustainable products, services and solutions. Attendees will enjoy interactive opportunities, including renewable energy and solar displays, composting demonstrations, green home solutions, eco-gift shopping and tours of the college’s student farm and new buildings.

Exhibitors can connect with hundreds of eco-conscious individuals, network with green leaders and promote their sustainable missions. The expo provides a platform to engage with an audience which is both passionate about environmental sustainability and eager to make a positive impact.

Location: 8900 U.S. Hwy. 14, Crystal Lake. For more information or to apply as a vendor, visit bit.ly/MCCGreenExpoVendor. See ad on page 27.

Holistic Dwellings Offers Healthy Home Solutions

John Lack, founder and owner of Holistic Dwellings LLC, is a certified building biologist, electromagnetic radiation (EMR) specialist and environmental consultant. With more than 40 years of experience as a builder in the construction industry, he brings a unique understanding of both conventional and holistic home building practices.

Holistic home building aims to eliminate materials, designs and technologies that can contribute to toxic building syndrome and negatively impact occupants’ health. Holistic Dwellings focuses on reducing EMR exposure in the home, including electrical and magnetic fields and radio frequencies. Home assessments can also reveal issues such as mold and other factors that affect indoor air quality.

For those planning to remodel or build new, Holistic Dwellings provides support—from site assessments and early design input to writing specifications and conducting site inspections—to help ensure a healthier living environment.

A complimentary, 15-minute virtual consultation with Lack is available for individuals interested in discussing concerns about their living space.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit HolisticDwellingsLLC.com. See ad in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

John Lack

Image courtesy McHenry County

Photo courtesy Holistic Dwellings

Enhance Well-Being With Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

Harmonic Egg-Naperville has introduced a new addition to its wellness offerings: a state-of-the-art hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) chamber. This technology is designed to accelerate healing, promote overall wellness and enhance recovery through the use of pure oxygen delivered in a pressurized environment.

The hard-shell chamber prioritizes comfort, featuring a spacious interior with a soft mattress and pillow to help clients fully relax during each session.

“The pressurized environment enhances the body’s ability to absorb oxygen, helping to repair tissues, reduce inflammation and support the body’s natural healing processes,” says owner and co-founder Harmony Pavett. “Whether you’re recovering from an injury, dealing with chronic conditions or simply looking to boost your energy levels, HBOT can support a variety of health goals.”

HBOT is integrated alongside the center’s Harmonic Egg sessions to provide a holistic approach to wellness. Together, these modalities offer a unique opportunity for relaxation, rejuvenation and overall well-being.

Location: 1801 N. Mill St., Ste. L, Naperville. For more information or to arrange for a session, call 630-780-0193 or visit HarmonicEgg-Naperville.com. See ad on page 6, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

Bridging Modern Families with Ancient Healing Traditions

Holistic Care for Every Stage of Life

Blending ancestral wisdom with natural remedies for whole-family wellness.

Amy Luebke

• Naturopathy

• Midwifery

• Botanical Remedies

Book your complimentary consult now!

224-730-1940 • moonphasesoflife.com

HOME VISITS, TELEHEALTH & WOODSTOCK OFFICE

Photo credit Harmony Pavett

Client relaxing in the HBOT chamber at Harmonic Egg.

Vitamin D and Erectile Function What Every Man Should Know

by Jerry Garcia, PA-C, Pedro Azcona, M.D., and Raymond Wohl, BA, MA

June is Men’s Health Month—a timely reminder to focus on overall well-being, including sexual health and performance. While vitamin D is commonly associated with bone health, it plays a crucial role in several other systems, including those tied to erectile function. Many men may not realize that low levels of this essential nutrient could be affecting their performance and confidence.

Vitamin D supports a wide range of bodily functions, including heart health, immune response and hormone regulation. Increasing evidence links vitamin D deficiency to erectile dysfunction (ED). A 2020 study published in the World Journal of Men’s Health highlighted the connection between low vitamin D levels and ED, suggesting that maintaining adequate levels is vital for sexual health.

For men experiencing ED—or those simply aiming to stay proactive—checking vitamin D levels may be worthwhile. This is especially important for men over 40, those carrying extra weight or those that spend little time outdoors.

Vitamin D may also help support healthy testosterone levels and vas

issues linked to ED, such as high blood pressure and arterial plaque buildup.

Men are encouraged to talk with their healthcare provider about vitamin D screening. A simple blood test can offer valuable insights— and may lead to improvements in energy, sexual performance and overall well-being.

Jerry Garcia is the medical director, Dr. Pedro Azcona is a medical provider and Raymond Wohl is the business manager and patient care coordinator of Chicago Male Clinic, located at 4801 W. Peterson Ave., Ste. 506, in Chicago. For more information or to make an appointment, call 773-414-9900 or visit ChicagoMaleClinic.com. See ad on page 13, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business

Jerry Garcia, Raymond Wohl and Pedro Azcona

Photo courtesy of Chicago Male Clinic

Get Ready to Swing Into Summer Golf Season

by Kim Henderson, DC

Golf might seem easy on the body and is regarded as a lifelong sport. However, the repetitive swinging motion with heavy amounts of rotation can take a toll on many of the body’s joints and spine. The lower back, hip and sacroiliac joints can become overstrained due to the power needed to hit those long drives. The shoulder girdle, middle back and neck take on additional load through the second half of the swing, frequently resulting in anterior shoulder pain, stiff neck and Golfer’s elbow. The cause—poor swing mechanics and overuse.

especially working until both sides feel relatively balanced. Stretching the chest and performing some arm circles to get the blood flowing to the upper extremities is equally important.

Before hitting the fairways, it’s important to make sure that the muscles are warmed up and ready for course play. Taking 10 to 15 minutes to warm up the core spinal muscles with a standing back extension—gently placing the hands on the hips and arching the back to a comfortable range of motion—is recommended. This should be repeated several times until increased flexibility is felt. If there is space to comfortably stretch the hips, quads, hamstrings and calves, it’s also advised to go through a series of stretches to build awareness of tight areas and reduce tension,

Taking several practice swings in both directions will also help maintain balance and reduce overuse of the dominant hand. There’s no need to worry about warming up with swings on the non-dominant side, as it’ll become easier with more practice.

Doing seated calf raises before hole number one can help warm up the lower leg near the ankle, while standing calf raises—performed with or without stairs—target the upper calf near the knee. Smart, comfortable shoes that don’t cramp the feet and provide proper arch support round out the pre-golf warmup for a healthy and enjoyable summer golf program.

Dr. Kim Henderson is the founder of Health Clarified, located at 2165A Shermer Rd., in Northbrook. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 224-344-8668 or visit HealthClarified Now.com. See ads on pages 19 and 33, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

Spring Special

Photo courtesy of Health Clarified

Kim Henderson

Following the Signs: The Journey to Anaway Place

Sometimes the most meaningful changes begin with a quiet sign—if one is open enough to see it.

In April 2021, Lyndsay Kane and Chris Popio were simply searching for a weekend escape into nature. Hoping to find a secluded cabin where they could reconnect with one another and the natural world they love, they discovered Anaway Place, known then as Candlewood Cabins, in Richland Center, Wisconsin. Enchanted by its unique glass-walled cabins and stunning views, they booked a rare cancellation at the Meadow House.

That weekend retreat turned into something much more. The beauty and serenity of the place sparked a dream: to create their own nature-based retreat—a place that combined the rustic soul of camping with the comforts of well-designed, luxurious stays. Their vision originally included safari-style glamping tents, en suite baths and a vintage barn that could host creative and wellness gatherings rooted in community and land.

For three and a half years, they pursued that dream. They toured farms across the Midwest, partnered with an investor and came close—three times—to purchasing land to bring their concept to life. Yet each time, something fell through.

Just as they were about to step away from the dream entirely, a surprising sign appeared. Popio, rarely one to scroll Instagram, happened to open the app—and the first post he saw announced that Norbert and Susan Calnin, founders of Anaway Place, were retiring. The retreat that had inspired their dream was now for sale.

Within 24 hours, Kane, Popio and their business partner moved to acquire the

property. But two weeks before the closing, their partner backed out. Faced with losing everything they had dreamt of and worked toward, the couple made a bold choice: They would do everything possible to make it happen anyway.

Restore Balance Retreat

August 8-10

at The Barn at Anaway Place

Come for a magical weekend of personal renewal in the Driftless Region of Southwest Wisconsin in collaboration with Evanston’s Heaven Meets Earth. This retreat offers a blend of yoga, forest bathing, kayaking, intention setting, a fire ceremony and deepened self-love—all set in the natural beauty and comfort of Anaway Place.

An early registration discount is available through June 6. More information at HeavenMeetsEarthYoga.com

Participants can come with friends or attend solo to reconnect with themselves and experience the healing power of nature, community and stillness. All experience levels are welcome.

They reached out far and wide, eventually connecting with Heaven Meets Earth, the Evanston yoga studio where Kane teaches.

Owner Lisa Faremouth Weber suggested they speak to Lisa Hoffmann, a fellow student and wellness enthusiast with an interest in hospitality ventures and communal retreats. It was a perfect match. Within weeks, a new partnership and deep friendship formed, and within four months, they became the new owners of what is now known as Anaway Place.

Today, Kane and Popio are the hands and hearts behind Anaway, continuing the legacy of peaceful connection while expanding its offerings to include wellness and creative experiences—just as they once imagined. One such event is the upcoming Restore Balance Retreat, their second collaboration with Heaven Meets Earth, and Kane will be one of the guest yoga teachers. Popio, Kane and Hoffman are delighted to share this beautiful place with all that come, and are excited by the possibilities the future at Anaway holds. They hope that everyone leaves feeling as refreshed, as grounded and as inspired as they have been.

Anaway Place is a thoughtfully arranged collection of seven unique and elegant cabins nestled in the woods on 110 acres in the Driftless Region, in Richland, Wisconsin. With a range of rental options, it’s the perfect “away place” for a romantic weekend, family vacation or restorative retreat. For more information, call 608-647-5720 or visit Anaway.com. See ad on page 17.

Chris Popio and Lyndsay Kane

Photo courtesy Anaway Place

Forest Greens Juice Bar:

Featuring Food as Nature Intended

by Sheila Julson

As a stay-at-home mom, Annemarie Ranallo, owner of Forest Greens Juice Bar, had always believed in the power of food to heal, energize and bring people together. Her interest in nutrition, whole foods and gluten-free cooking intensified when her oldest son struggled with severe eczema and asthma. Conventional medication failed to alleviate his conditions.

As Ranallo changed her family’s diet and introduced green juices into their daily routines, her son’s symptoms improved, and she observed a remarkable transformation in her family’s overall health. The experience inspired her to open Forest Greens Juice Bar in Lake Bluff in June 2019 with a mission to make achieving wellness through food more accessible for everyone.

Forest Greens sells a variety of bottled cold-pressed juices made fresh

daily. The location also features a healthful menu of paleo, vegan and gluten-free foods that include homemade soups available fresh and frozen, acai bowls, salads, vegan “chicken” and “tuna” salads, power bars and raw desserts. Breakfast, lunch and dinner options are available for grab-and-go or dine-in.

“My hands-on experiences of studying nutrition, and experimenting with whole foods and gluten-free recipes, along with a deep passion for healthy living, gave me the confidence to bring Forest Greens to life,” says Ranallo.

More Than Juice: Making Whole Foods Delicious and Nutritious

Crafting a menu for Forest Greens came easily for Ranallo. “The menu reflects what I personally love to eat—simple, vibrant meals made from real, whole ingredients.” She also gathered community input and learned that many others craved clean, flavorful food they could feel good about.

All menu items are gluten-free, Ranallo emphasizes, and she’s committed to transparency and quality in every step.

Cold-Pressed Juices and Refreshers

Cold-pressed is a method that extracts juice from fruits and vegetables without heat, preserving nutrients and antioxidants. Seven varieties of juices offer combinations of superfoods, fruits and vegetables to help boost endurance, digestion, energy and more. The cold-pressed bottles of juice are made daily so customers can enjoy the benefits of fresh juice with grab-and-go convenience.

The juices and refreshers—drinks formulated to increase energy, flush toxins and cool the body—are made with whole, clean foods. Ranallo strives to use organic ingredients whenever possible. Common ingredients include coconut water, which offers natural electrolytes. Chia seeds, another ingredient used in many of Forest Greens’ menu items, are packed with fiber and plant-based omega-3s.

Photos courtesy of Forest Greens Juice Bar

Photos courtesy of Forest Greens Juice

Bar

Spirulina, known for its antioxidant benefits, is another superfood fea tured in the juices.

Raw, Vegan and Seasonal Offerings

Some foods on the menu are also made with raw ingredients. “Raw foods are packed with enzymes, vitamins and minerals that can be lost during cooking,” affirms Ranallo. “Eating raw—especially fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds—supports digestion, boosts energy and can enhance overall vitality. It’s not about being 100 percent raw, but about incorporating more living foods into your daily routine.”

The core menu stays the same throughout the year, but Forest Greens also offers seasonal items with fresh, in-season ingredients. They source from local farms and vendors that share their commitment to quality and sustainability. “This helps us keep our offerings vibrant while supporting our local community,” notes Ranallo.

Beyond Food: A Wellness Space

Forest Greens also offers wellness shots, cleanses and coffee.

While she strives to offer healthy, flavorful food, Forest Greens is about more than eating—it’s a space rooted in wellness and intention. Ranallo explains, “We focus on plant-based, nutrient-dense foods made with clean, gluten-free ingredients you can feel good about. Our community-driven approach makes healthy eating feel exciting, approachable and genuinely enjoyable for everyone.”

Looking Ahead

Going forward, Ranallo intends to collaborate with local wellness professionals, potentially open more locations, and offer meal plans and detox packages. “The goal is to continue evolving while staying rooted in our mission of whole-food wellness,” she enthuses.

After experiencing firsthand how good, healthy food can improve well-being, Ranallo is motivated to help others experience that same level of vibrancy—from customers trying their first green juice to regulars that have made lasting lifestyle changes. “Being part of someone’s wellness journey is a privilege, and it inspires me every day,” she reflects.

Forest Greens Juice Bar is located at 123 N. Waukegan Rd., Ste. 100, in Lake Bluff. For more information, call 708-658-4231 or visit ForestGreensJuiceBar.com. See ad on page 35, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

Sheila Julson is a freelance writer and regular contributor to Natural Awakenings

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Bartlett Tree Experts:

Cultivating Healthier Environments With Expert Tree Care

by Carrie Jackson

Since 1907, Bartlett Tree Experts has provided uncompromised service, consulting and research on every aspect of tree maintenance. Although they are one of the largest residential and commercial tree care firms in the world, the family-owned company remains rooted in small business values and a commitment to science. “We deliver science-based tree care while maintaining family values that pervade the organization,” says Vice President Midwest Division Scott Jamieson.

With more than 125 locations worldwide, including offices in the United Kingdom, Ireland and Canada, Bartlett has a global reach, but maintains a local touch. Their 11 Midwest offices and satellite locations include partnerships with leading organizations such as the Morton Arboretum and the Lurie Garden. “Our corporate [team] includes nine Ph.D. scientists who work on everything from soil to roots to insects to disease. They’re constantly conducting research, both on landscape sites and in labs, and we apply those findings with our clients and share it with the industry,” says Jamieson.

Bartlett provides services to residential and commercial customers, as well as some municipalities and nonprofit organizations. They help with every aspect of tree care, including pruning, storm damage, fertilization, soil care, and insect and disease management.

Jamieson notes that while trees offer a number of holistic benefits for the environment, there are also advantages for homeowners. “There’s no question that trees are a community asset. They help clean the air, enhance

the neighborhood aesthetics and provide canopy cover in the city. For homeowners, trees can increase or lower curb appeal, depending on how they are maintained. A house that’s built on a mature forest garners a greater value than a new home that’s put on a cornfield. Large trees can provide shade and wildlife habitat, but those benefits can become a liability if they aren’t inspected on a regular basis,” he says.

For many homeowners, simply becoming aware that they have tree care options is an important first step. “Many people don’t realize that trees would benefit from care. But if they’re neglected, trees ultimately may die or develop disease and need to be cut down. I use a real estate analogy that if you buy a new house, you always get a home inspection before you close. We recommend having a certified arborist come out to make sure there’s no liability with the trees on your property,” Jamieson says.

The team at Bartlett starts with a thorough evaluation and makes a diagnosis based on their findings. “Whether clients have a specific issue or are just gathering information,

we do a detailed assessment for any problems. We always do a soil sample, because while telltale signs of disease often first present with leaves, the damage usually starts below ground. We might prescribe a fertilizer based on those findings, but we want to make sure what we’re doing is based on a diagnosis and tailored to the particular landscape. Some owners might have dogwood, beech and boxwood all in the same area, but they all need different things,” Jamieson explains.

For properties with multiple trees, Bartlett will create a tree and shrub care plan that clients can refer to over time. “A care plan is a detailed outline of the property, including GPS locations of plants, trees and shrubs. It’s a higher-level diagnosis and management plan of the property that lets them plan year by year. It’s a more spread out, comprehensive approach if they don’t want to do everything all at once,” Jamieson says.

Here in Chicago, Bartlett works with clients both in the city and suburbs. Jamieson says the urban environment is actually more conducive to trees than one might think. “Courtyards produce heat islands and reflective heat, and you can grow different plants you may not be able to in the suburbs. The temperature also doesn’t get as cold downtown, so you can push the hardiness zones a bit. However, those smaller locations do require you to have a pruning program or plant trees that don’t overpower the space. We’ll see people plant a cute spruce and 10 years down the road they have to remove that overgrown tree. And logistically, it’s often more difficult to care for plants in the city if we’re working in a courtyard or alley with tight spaces,” Jamieson says.

Scott Jamieson

Photo courtesy Bartlett Tree Experts

The Midwest is rife with tree varieties, and Bartlett will help steer customers to the ones that are right for them. “If you want longevity and grandeur, native oaks are the way to go. Smaller flowering trees, magnolias and disease-resistant crabapples do really well in our urban environments. You can grow Japanese maples anywhere, but they do really well in the city,” Jamieson says.

While they may be aesthetically appealing, Bartlett generally doesn’t recommend pine trees. “There’s a challenge with conifers that’s related to the increasing fluctuations in weather. Spruce and other evergreens don’t do so well in our area. If somebody wants an evergreen type plant, we’ll often recommend a concolor fir, Norway spruce or arborvitae,” says Jamieson.

Given the scope of the work, there are inherent risks involved daily, and Bartlett prioritizes the safety of their teammates and clients over everything else. “Putting someone up in a tree obviously presents risks, and we ensure our employees have the proper training and equipment to protect themselves from exposure and falls. We also make sure our customers are safe and protected at all times,” Jamieson says.

Bartlett maintains their commitment to preserving the natural environment with eco-friendly and sustainable measures. They were the first tree care company to adopt integrated pest management, or IPM, and are leaders in natural pest control. “We use organic fertilizer and focus on soil injection instead of spraying whenever possible. We’re always looking for the safest material that does the least amount of harm to the environment,” says Jamieson.

Carrie Jackson is an Evanston-based writer and frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings magazine. Connect at  CarrieJacksonWrites.com.

Bartlett operates 11 offices and satellite locations serving Chicagoland, Wisconsin, Michigan, Missouri and Indiana. For more information, call 630-960-4001 or visit  Bartlett.com. See ad on page 23, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

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Midwest Wildflowers in Bloom:

Discover Nature’s June Display

by Sheryl DeVore

On a June walk along the Des Plaines River, Jen Berlinghof often discovers shooting stars and Ohio spiderwort in full bloom. “The vibrant, violet hues of spiderwort and pale pink shooting stars dot the rolling landscape like confetti,” says Berlinghof, an education site specialist for the Lake County Forest Preserves (LCFP).

Brett Peto, environmental communications specialist with LCFP, writes a nature blog with Berlinghof (LakeCountyNature.com). He describes spiderwort as “bluish purple fireworks blooming in a waist-high meadow” in June at Middlefork Savanna Forest Preserve (MSFP), in Lake Forest.

Berlinghof and Peto’s meanderings show that while some wildflower blooms like trilliums and spring beauty—seen in April and May— are mostly gone by the end of spring, other ephemeral wildflowers take their place in June. Species such as shooting stars, spiderwort, three kinds of Solomon’s seal and wild hyacinth are in full bloom in June and can be found throughout the Chicago region.

Those spring ephemerals in April and May, such as trillium, caught the sun shining through the trees before the leaves had opened. “Spring ephemerals take advantage of abundant light in the woodland before

leaves emerge in the canopy above,” Berlinghof says. “They complete their entire life cycle before shade covers the forest floor.”

The native wildflowers that bloom in June are typically found in more open woodlands. They are seeking sun that can reach the ground through openings between trees with shady leaves.

Wild hyacinth is one such species, reaching its peak in early June. It emerges from an underground bulb, much like non-native varieties sold in nurseries, and features grass-like foliage and delicate sprays of white blooms.

Wild hyacinth.

Photo by

Sheryl DeVore

Wild columbine.

Photo by Steven D. Bailey

“This plant is slow to develop during the spring but fairly long-lived,” Peto says. “It needs above-average moisture levels to grow and bloom. The flowers bloom in order from the bottom of the central stalk and only last two to three days each.”

Wild hyacinth, which grows in clumps, thrives in moist black soil prairies, savannas and open woodlands. “It’s generally found in high-quality habitats in full sun to light shade,” Peto says.

Places to look for wild hyacinth include Captain Daniel Wright Woods Forest Preserve, in Mettawa; Reed-Turner Woodland, in Long Grove; Wolf Road Prairie Nature Preserve (WRPNP), in Westchester; Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve, in Beecher; and Thaddeus S. “Ted” Lechowicz Woods, in Chicago.

Solomon’s seal also blooms in June, and

three different types can be found: true Solomon’s seal (commonly referred to simply as Solomon’s seal), false Solomon’s seal and starry false Solomon’s seal.

Known as wild lily-of-the-valley, Solomon’s seal species are much better choices for home gardens than the non-native Eurasian species, which can be invasive.

The common name, Solomon’s seal, refers to scars on the rhizomes (underground stems of the plant) that resemble the ancient Hebrew seal of King Solomon. The starchy, edible rhizomes have been used by Native Americans for medicinal purposes and even baked into bread.

True and false Solomon’s seal both grow in clumps and have similar leaves, but the species are distinguishable in bloom between late May and the end of June. True Solomon’s seal has greenish-white tubular flowers that hang like pairs of bells beneath the leaves. These blooms eventually become poisonous dark blue berries. The plant typically grows in moist to slightly dry deciduous woodlands, young flatwoods and woodland edges.

The false Solomon’s seal blooms are easy to see, arising in whitish plumes atop the plant stalks, and later produce clusters of red berries. “Typical habitats for the false Solomon’s seal are mesic (somewhat wet) to dry deciduous woodlands and bluffs,” Peto says.

Starry false Solomon’s seal resembles a miniature false Solomon’s seal, with whitish starshaped flowers blooming atop the plant. “Typical habitats for this species are sandy prairies, moist meadows in woodland areas, woodland borders and black oak savannas,” Peto notes. Places to search for this rarer Solomon’s seal include MSFP and Beaubien Woods, in Chicago.

Berlinghof and Peto also enjoy watching bees visit Solomon’s seal for nectar. “Native bumble bees will land on Solomon’s seal flowers and buzz their wings to cause the flower to release extra pollen,” Peto says. “They buzz their wings at a higher frequency than what they use for flight.”

Shooting stars, another showy June wildflower, bloom from May through June and begin to take on a pinkish hue toward the end of their cycle. The genus name, Dodecatheon, comes from the Greek words for “12 gods.” Legend has it that 12 gods took care of these plants with bright green basal leaves and a thin, single stalk upon which white shooting stars hang.

Search for these plants in bloom at Black Partridge Woods, in Lemont; Rollins Savanna, in Grayslake; Independence Grove, in

Wild columbine.

Photo by Steven D. Bailey

Photo by Steven D. Bailey

Ohio spiderwort.

Photo by Sheryl DeVore

Shooting star.

Libertyville; Greenbelt Forest Preserve, in North Chicago; and Edward L. Ryerson Conservation Area, in Riverwoods.

Ohio spiderwort is another commonly found native plant that blooms in June. Visit savannas and prairies at Spears Woods, in Willow Springs; MSFP; WRPNP; and Belmont Prairie, in Downers Grove, to search for these unusual blooming plants. Morning is the best time to visit, as the flowers often wilt in the afternoon heat.

“Spiderwort is an intriguing name, because there’s debate over what part of the plant it refers to,” Peto explains. “The leaves look like a squatting spider to some. There are tiny blue hairs around the stamen, or male part of the flower, that could resemble the strands of a web. Spiderwort also produces a thick sap that turns white when dry like a spider’s silk.”

Wild columbine also blooms late in the spring, and is known for its showy, drooping bell-like red and yellow flowers with spurs. “These spurs contain nectar that attracts long-tongued insects and hummingbirds especially adapted for reaching the sweet secretion,” according to the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center’s website (WildFlower.org).

Look for wild columbine in rocky open woodlands, sandy savannas and thinly wooded bluffs, as well as along old railroad tracks. Good viewing spots include the oak savannas at Glacial Park, in Ringwood, and Eggers Grove, in Chicago.

“While spring is a lovely time to see gorgeous woodland wildflowers, the petal party doesn’t stop after May,” Peto acknowledges. “Treat yourself to a walk in your local forest preserve or natural area and enjoy the beauty of early summer in the woods.”

Sheryl DeVore has written six books on science, health and nature, as well as nature, health and environment stories for national and regional publications. Read more at SherylDeVore.WordPress.com.

Educational Corner

Spiderwort Trades

cantia ohiensis

Tradescantia ohiensis is the most common and widespread species of spiderwort in the United States. Its native range extends north to Wisconsin, Michigan and slightly into Ontario; west to Texas and Kansas; south to Florida; and northeast to Massachusetts. With their flower parts in threes (three petals and six stamens), Spiderworts are in the Monocot class. Flowers last only one day, but each stem can produce 20 or more flowers. This species has dark green, arching, grass-like leaves that are folded to form channels or grooves.

Bloom dates: April through July.

Height: Grows to 16–40 inches tall, and may sprawl. Habitat: Prefers full to partial sun and is commonly found in prairies, wood margins, meadows, along roadsides, or in waste areas.

Kingdom: Plantae

Group: Monocots

Class: Liliopsida

Order: Commelinales

Family: Commelinaceae

Plant Facts:

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• You can find this plant with blue, purple, pink and even white flowers.

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Photo © Carol Freeman

Photo by Steven D. Bailey

Starry false Solomon’s seal.

Four Steps to Starting a Native Plant Garden

by Kelsay Shaw

Asense of overwhelm is one of the most common concerns we hear expressed by many homeowners that dream of starting a native garden or incorporating more natives into an existing landscape. With the abundance of information available, that feeling is incredibly justified. Often, getting started is the hardest part. Here are some ideas to help move past that initial hurdle.

1. Set Your Planting Goal

overall idea without losing your vision.

If a budget issue is the catalyst for the shift, planting a more aggressive native species that’s likely to spread may preserve the project. Using smaller plants, like plugs instead of gallons, also reduces costs.

4. Remember to Have Fun

Your goal can be as simple as creating a pollinator garden or as complex as stabilizing a shoreline. Maybe you’re turning to natives to improve drainage or manage stormwater. Perhaps you want to support and invite more wildlife into your yard. Whatever your objective, there are native species that can help. If you’re unsure of what your goal is, establishing a budget is a great first step. While establishing a garden can require a long-term investment, planning at $2 to $4 per square foot allows for generous, cost-effective coverage—especially when choosing hardy native plants that thrive over time.

2. Take Stock of Your Site

What is your soil like? What are your light levels? What is the moisture level in your space? Are there any human-made structures, such as buildings or roads, that impact the area? All of these factors will help you narrow down which native species are best suited for your space. We recommend checking light exposure in the areas you want to plant at different times of day to see how it changes. If you have a wet area, noting how long it stays saturated can also help you choose the right species.

3. Don’t Be Afraid to Pivot

As you select species, you might realize that your original plan needs to shift. A plant you had in mind might not be a great fit for your growing environment, but a similar species in the same genus could work better. Adjusting your plant choices may help preserve your

Native gardening and planting to support the planet opens up a world of possibilities. The butterflies, birds and insects drawn to areas with species essential to their existence add dimension and experiences that might have been missed otherwise. This is why the most important part of gardening is not getting so locked into a project idea that you forget to enjoy the journey. Gardening involves a lot of trial and error. A garden will change over time, and watching it grow may offer new opportunities and insights you hadn’t originally considered.

Starting a native plant garden offers a rewarding and dynamic experience. By setting clear goals, evaluating the site, remaining adaptable with plant choices and enjoying the process, gardeners can create landscapes that support local wildlife while enhancing their connection to nature. With thoughtful planning and an openness to learning, gardeners can transform their spaces into thriving ecosystems that evolve over time.

Kelsay Shaw is co-owner, sales consultant and botanist at Possibility Place Nursery LLC. He holds a Bachelor of Science in botany from Eastern Illinois University and has worked in the industry for more than 25 years. Shaw has taught classes on native plants, lectured on their uses and environmental impacts, and handled the bulk of the nursery’s consulting on projects both large and small. Possibility Place Nursery is located at 7548 W. Monee-Manhattan Rd., in Monee. For more information, visit PossibilityPlace.com. See ad on page 29, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

Photo credit Kelsay Shaw

Photo credit Kelsay Shaw

Butterfly Milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa)

Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa)

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Healing the Split From Nature

Accepting Earth’s Guidance

by Marlaina Donato

Gardeners have long understood that getting their hands in the earth makes them feel better, and scientific research supports this belief. Studies of the soil-dwelling bacterium Mycobacterium vaccae have linked the practice to improved mood, as well as reduced stress and anxiety, because it can trigger the release of serotonin. Other reported benefits include anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory properties, relief from skin allergies and reduced lung cancer-related nausea and pain.

Data researchers at Statista report that a mere 8 percent of our lives is spent outdoors, leading to what author Richard Louv calls nature-deficit disorder, a phenomenon that compromises the well-being of both children and adults. According to Pam Montgomery, author of Co-Creating with Nature: Healing the Wound of Separation, “We are a part of nature, and yet, we have fallen into this deep amnesia where we have forgotten that we are kin to the tree, the river, the mountain and all of life. Being separated from the source of one’s sustenance creates a deep chronic level of stress, which affects us on all levels.”

Whether we nurture houseplants, capture seasonal outdoor photographs, doodle in a nature journal, plant patio flowers or simply stroll a local park, reconnecting with living organisms can bolster our immune system, enhance cognitive function and improve mental well-being.

Green Allies

A 2020 review published in Frontiers in Psychology shows that as little as 10 to 20 minutes of time spent in nature improved the mental health of college-aged adults. Notably, being outdoors in urbanized settings did not yield comparable benefits. Furthermore, a 2019 study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health revealed improved attention and focus among 23 students aged 11 to 13 years that studied with plants in the classroom.

“Our bodies evolved in the natural world, and, for many basic functions, we took our cues from the natural world—light levels, day length, plentifulness of resources. However, we now spend over 90 percent of our time in climate-controlled buildings with artificial light, so we are cut off from these cues,” says Cynthia McPherson Frantz, chair of the department of psychology at Oberlin College, in Ohio.

Montgomery concurs, noting, “Because we are constantly surrounded by artificial electro-magnetic fields (EMFs) like those of cell phones, computers and alternating current, instead of the natural EMFs of the forest, streams, Earth, ocean, birdsong, et cetera, our energy bodies become full of static, and we lose the ability to hear the messages and receive the ‘touches’ from nature.” For Montgomery, who maintains a shamanic partnership with the natural world, plants are conscious beings, and the Earth is calling us back into relationship, reciprocity and reverence.

Forest Frequencies

Communing with nature among the redwoods was medicine for Ellen Dee Davidson, author of Sacred Forest Bathing: The Healing Power of Ancient Trees and Wild Places. “The main difference between forest bathing and an ordinary walk, hike or camping trip is the quality of attention we bring to the environment,” she explains. “By using our senses to focus on what we see, hear, smell, taste or touch, we become more present to our surroundings.”

Davidson attributes her recovery from fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, anxiety and insomnia to the therapeutic effects of spending time in the trees. “Part of why immersing ourselves in nature is

Forest Bathing Benefits

Forest Bathing Benefits

In Japan, shinrin-yoku, or “taking in the forest atmosphere,” emphasizes spending time among trees and was officially incorporated into a national health program by the government in 1982. A 2022 study published in BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies indicates that forest bathing reduced blood pressure and stress hormone levels among participants compared to other environments.

In Japan, shinrin-yoku, or “taking in the forest atmosphere,” emphasizes spending time among trees and was officially incorporated into a national health program by the government in 1982. A 2022 study published in BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies indicates that forest bathing reduced blood pressure and stress hormone levels among participants compared to other environments.

so healing is that we can be alone but not alone. We are part of the entangled weave of life,” she shares.

In a society where sensitivity is often seen as a liability, time spent with trees has taught Davidson how to protect her sensitive nature, giving herself permission to assert healthy boundaries and exercise self-compassion. She also advocates for mindful breathing exercises, noting, “We’re always connected to nature through our breath.”

Montgomery elaborates on the concept of reciprocal breathing, explaining, “We breathe in oxygen from the plants, trees and sea vegetables and breathe out carbon dioxide, which the plants absorb. So, the practice is to bring into your awareness a favorite plant or tree that you engage in reciprocal breathing with, becoming aware that you are the breath of another being.”

Frantz suggests that tapping into nature’s vitality can be as simple as finding a corner of nature to study and check in with every day. “This pocket of nature doesn’t have to be big,” she says. “It could be the squirrel that lives in the tree outside your window, or the tree itself.”

Marlaina Donato is an author and multimedia expressionist. Connect at WildflowersAndWoodSmoke.com.

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Expanding Our Healthspan

Holistic Strategies for Long-Term Well-Being

by Carrie Jackson

While many people seek to prolong life, those extra years will not be fulfilling without good health. “The United States has one of the worst healthspans in the world. We have the highest rate of chronic disease and spend too much time suffering and deteriorating,” declares Dr. Eric Plasker, a chiropractor and creator of The 100 Year Lifestyle, an instructional manual and wellness system for making the most of an extended lifespan.

According to Plasker, “How you take care of yourself every day has a direct effect on your long-term quality of life. Unfortunately, the current healthcare system has focused mostly on symptoms and disease treatment. We need to have more of a lifestyle-care

approach to help you function at your highest level for a lifetime, instead of constantly trying to get your health back.”

Beginning the Healthspan Journey

Dr. Peter Diamandis is a physician, engineer, entrepreneur and co-founder of the BOLD Longevity Growth Fund, which invests in biotechnologies that address the root causes of disease and extend healthspan. He is also the co-founder and chairman of Fountain Life, a company that focuses on advanced diagnostics and preventative health to help people live longer and healthier lives.

Diamandis asserts that people possess greater control over their healthspan than

they may think. “We’re at a turning point in health care—shifting from a reactive, one-size-fits-all model to a proactive, personalized and data-driven approach,” he remarks. “While many people assume their longevity is mostly genetic, the data tells a different story. Studies involving tens of millions of people show that your genes account for only 7 to 30 percent of how long you live. That means the rest is up to you—your lifestyle, your environment and what you eat.”

The Food Paradox

The impact of food on our well-being cannot be underestimated, and Diamandis points out that food can be either the slowest form of poison or the most powerful medicine. In a nutshell, our daily meal choices put us in control of how we age. He recommends anti-inflammatory foods such as broccoli, spinach, Brussels sprouts, blueberries, walnuts, chia seeds and avocado.

“I eat the rainbow every day, because flavonoids, carotenoids and polyphenols act as molecular defenders, protecting your DNA, supporting your mitochondria and reducing your risk of conditions like heart disease, cancer and neurodegeneration,” he states. “I also use extra-virgin olive oil and turmeric liberally, which have both been shown to reduce inflammation at the cellular level. And I keep snacks like frozen blueberries and raw walnuts within arm’s reach, because what you actually eat is what you have close by.”

Avoiding harmful foods is just as important. “Sugar is incredibly inflammatory. It shrinks the hippocampus, disrupts metabolism and fuels conditions like diabetes and Alzheimer’s. Most people don’t realize how addictive it is or how much damage it causes until they cut it out and feel the difference,” says Diamandis.

Complementary Modalities

Integrating modalities such as chiropractic care, acupuncture, yoga and meditation into pixelfit from Getty Images Signature/CanvaPro

a wellness plan can help our bodies function at an optimum level. Plasker notes that the number, intensity and duration of chiropractic treatments vary based on a patient’s baseline health. “If you are meditating five times a day and have no underlying decay, you will need a lot less lifestyle care than if you are a weekend warrior or a marathoner who might have more decay," he explains.

While chiropractic care is well known for success with back and nerve pain, its hidden specialty is in functional and performance-based care. “Physical therapy, functional medicine and nutrition therapy work better with the addition of chiropractic care,” asserts Plasker. “It helps to align the spine so the nervous system can communicate between the brain and body the way it is supposed to.”

As we age, we may encounter ongoing consequences from the wear and tear that occurred in our younger days. “The pounding and collisions from youth sports can have a lasting effect on the body and can accelerate osteoarthritis,” Plasker points out. “Regular chiropractic adjustments help to restore alignment, balance, motion and function, so the body doesn’t continue to deteriorate. Anti-inflammatory supplements such as turmeric, glucosamine and chondroitin can help with acute inflammation, but if the alignment of the spine isn’t right, they’ll be facing a constant battle.”

Reframing fitness routines to prioritize long-term sustainability can help the

repair previous damage. “If you were an athlete, you can still be an athlete, but you might have to change your approach,” suggests Plasker. “Align the care you receive with the lifestyle you are choosing to live. If you’re going to train for triathlons, you need to eat healthy and stretch more. You need to increase your supplementation and the frequency of your chiropractic adjustments. But if you’re just going for hikes and power walks, you’ll need less lifestyle care. It depends on you and what you want.”

Managing Mind and Spirit

Holistic stress management is essential for longevity and overall wellness. “A nervous system that is always in fight-or-flight mode can lead to inflammation, burnout and elevated blood pressure, putting undue stress on the heart,” explains Plasker. “Chiropractic intervention, coupled with tools such as aromatherapy and meditation, can create peace for the nervous system so you can use your energy for other things.”

Lisa Faremouth Weber, the owner of Heaven Meets Earth Family Yoga Studio, in Evanston, Illinois, notes that practices such as crystal bowl sound healing, yoga and mindfulness can help calm the body and contribute to overall wellness and longevity. She also points out that there is considerable

scientific evidence that supports the health benefits of practicing yoga, meditation, tai chi and qigong.

“Yoga and other complementary mind/body approaches integrate an individual’s physical, mental and spiritual components to improve cardiorespiratory health, physical and mental health and stress-related illnesses,” she explains. “Dr. Dean Ornish introduced millions to yoga’s health benefits through his published studies, which demonstrated that heart disease can be reversed through diet, meditation, group support and yoga. Additionally, ancient texts such as the Upanishads or Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras teach that the body follows the mind, and the mind follows the breath. Breath awareness and breathwork cultivate a balanced, harmonious and equanimous mind, enabling clarity and focus.”

Longevity Escape Velocity

Being mindful of daily habits and wellness routines in the present moment can lead to an extended healthspan down the road. “The goal isn’t just to live longer; it’s to stay healthy long enough to ride the wave of breakthroughs coming over the next

We need to

decade and reach what we call ‘longevity escape velocity’. That’s the moment when, for every year you live, science can extend your life by more than a year,” explains Diamandis. “We’re not far off. And the choices you make today—using data-driven diagnostics, embracing functional medicine and sticking to lifestyle habits that work— are what will get you there.”

Carrie Jackson is a Chicago-based freelance writer and frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings. Connect at CarrieJacksonWrites.com.

replace your vicious stress cycle with a vicious cycle of self-care.

—Sara Gottfried

Crafting Personal Fuel

Why Do-It-Yourself Protein Bars Are Worth the Effort

by Chloe Karydes Krecun

Portable and packed with beneficial nutrients, protein bars are a popular snack for busy lifestyles, fitness enthusiasts and anyone looking to curb cravings and meet nutrition goals. While store-bought options are widely available, do-it-yourself (DIY) protein bars are easy to customize for individual dietary needs.

“A lot of people snack based on convenience,” says Melody Schoenfeld, a certified personal trainer in Pasadena, California. Protein bars offer a tasty, filling and nutritional goodie that can be consumed in just a few bites.

Yasi Ansari, a dietitian nutritionist, specialist in sports dietetics and spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, explains that homemade protein bars offer a fully customizable approach to nutrition. “Since the bars are DIY, you have full control over ingredients and flavor profiles,” she says. This means avoiding artificial additives, excessive sugars or allergens that may be present in commercial options.

Importance of Protein

Protein is a complex molecule made of amino acids that provides energy and functions as the building block for bones, muscles, cartilage, skin and blood. “It is the one macronutrient that is never abjured by fad diets,” says Janet Chrzan, Ph.D., a professor of nutrition at the University of Pennsylvania. “We have a cultural preference for protein; we Americans often consider it to be the most important element of food.”

As a health and nutrition coach, Schoenfeld advocates for convenient and easy ways to get protein into a diet. For many, protein bars fill that void. “For most people age 18 and beyond, we’re looking at consuming somewhere between 0.8 to 1.2 grams of protein per pound of body weight for a healthy adult daily,” Schoenfeld recommends.

Nutrition Goals

Before diving into a recipe, Ansari says it is important to determine how the bar will address a dietary need and ask,

“Am I looking for a bar that helps with post-workout recovery, a snack to keep me full between meals or a fiber-rich option to support digestion?”

Knowing the purpose can guide ingredient selection. “For example, if it’s for the purpose of recovery, we’re going to want to make sure we’re getting close to 20 grams of protein per bar for muscle repair and building, while also getting enough carbohydrates to restore energy,” says Ansari. Ingredients like dried fruits, oats or whole grains help boost carbohydrate content, making the bars more effective for post-workout replenishment.

For those aiming to create a gut-friendly bar, Ansari suggests being mindful of sugar alcohols and artificial sweeteners that can cause digestive discomfort. “Consider smooth nut or seed butters if sensitive to crunchy varieties, and aim for fiber from nuts, dried fruits, flax and chia seeds,” she adds.

Ingredient Control

Both Schoenfeld and Ansari note that the greatest advantage of making protein bars at home is being able to select high-quality, nutrient-dense ingredients. Whether addressing dietary restrictions, avoiding allergens or satisfying a preference for organic, whole foods, DIY protein bars allow for total ingredient transparency.

Protein Bar Basics

A little investment of time helps ensure that healthy, smart and convenient snacks will always be within reach. Ansari offers these suggestions when crafting a protein bar at home:

• Choose a protein: Plant protein powders such as pea protein blend easily and well. Alternatives to powders include almond or seed butters, or whole nuts and seeds that can be chopped in a food processor.

• Choose a fruit: Fruits add fiber, micronutrients and antioxidants. Aim for two

to three grams of fiber per bar. Tasty sources include dried apricots, dried cherries, dried apples, raisins and dates.

• Add spices: To amplify the flavor profile, include spices such as cinnamon, pumpkin spice or nutmeg.

• Experiment with texture: Add rice cereal for crunch or oats for a chewy consistency.

• Include healthy fats: Options include walnuts, flaxseeds, chia seeds and coconut oil.

• Incorporate carbohydrates: Oats, rice cereal or dried fruits are great choices for energy.

• Choose natural sweeteners: Dried fruits provide sweetness to any bar, as well as fiber and nutrients like iron and vitamins A and C. A bit of fruit juice can also help blend the ingredients together. Other healthy alternatives are honey and maple syrup.

Chloe Karydes Krecun is a student at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Connect with her at LinkedIn.com/in/chloe-karydes-krecun.

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Recipe From a Farmers Market Kitchen

From Market to Table: A Zesty Summer Radish Salad

by Dale Hazlewood Board Member, Illinois Farmers Market Association

Farmers markets are opening all across Illinois, and that means fresh, local produce is back on your plate. To find a market near you, visit  ilfma.org/find-a-market, where you can search by ZIP code or by market features or what products they offer. Radishes are already plentiful at farmers markets, so now’s the perfect time to give them a starring role at your table.

Radishes are root vegetables that belong to the cruciferae, or mustard family, and have a spicy, peppery taste. They come in various shapes and colors—red, black, gold, purple and pink—and are often used as accents or garnishes. But this refreshing salad gives them the spotlight they deserve.

RADISH SALAD WITH CILANTRO AND HONEY VINAIGRETTE

YIELD: 6-8 SERVINGS

*Indicates seasonal items now available at many Illinois farmers markets

For the salad:

1 lb radishes*, coarsely chopped

1 cup sweet peppers, chopped

½ cup celery, chopped

3 scallions*, thinly sliced

½ cup fresh cilantro, minced

For the dressing:

⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil

1 fresh lemon, juiced and zested

3 Tbsp honey*

2 cloves fresh garlic, minced

Pinch of sea salt and ground black pepper

Place radishes and other prepared vegetables in a serving bowl. Combine all dressing ingredients in a mason jar with a lid and shake vigorously until blended. Drizzle over the salad, toss to coat and serve chilled.

Dale Hazlewood is a Board Member of the Illinois Farmers Market Association (ILFMA). ILFMA supports local food and food systems by giving Illinois farmers markets and producers access to resources, education and connections to grow healthier and economically vibrant communities. For more information, visit ilfma.org.

What do I know of man's destiny? I could tell you more about radishes.

—Samuel Becket

Photo

credit

Dale Hazlewood

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Carl Greer

on A Journey of Self-Exploration and Transformation

by Sandra Yeyati

Carl Greer is a retired clinical psychologist, Jungian analyst and shamanic practitioner. For decades, he has combined all three disciplines to help people resolve mental, behavioral and emotional disorders; integrate their conscious and unconscious minds; and receive spiritual healing. He has taught at the C.G. Jung Institute of Chicago and the Replogle Center for Counseling and Well-Being.

Through his philanthropic foundation, Greer has contributed to more than 60 charities and awarded more than 2,000 scholarships to aspiring students of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. He holds a doctorate in finance and management from Columbia University and a doctorate in clinical psychology from National Louis University’s Illinois School of Professional Psychology.

Building upon his previous titles, including Change Your Story, Change Your Life and The Necktie and The Jaguar, Greer’s latest book is Go Within to Change Your Life: A Hidden Wisdom Workbook for Personal Transformation.

What problem does your latest book seek to address?

Most people ask themselves, “Why did I just say that?” or “Why did I do that?” Similarly, people are often unable to stick to their New Year’s resolutions, which they presumably really wanted to achieve when they set those goals. My belief is that there are hidden parts of ourselves that are influencing our behavior, and if we want to make changes in our lives, we need to go within to discover those parts of ourselves and get insights that heretofore have been hidden from us.

Why do you say that we are stuck in a story written by someone else?

We have influences from our past—including our genetics, upbringing and life experiences—that have both consciously and unconsciously influenced where we are right now and will influence our future. If we want to break free from those influences, we have to do some things differently.

We have to recognize what’s holding us back, and it’s often a story about how to achieve happiness and success that isn’t working for

us and that we adopted without realizing it. These stories are often written by our families, communities and cultures.

How do you define “hidden wisdom”?

It’s a Jungian idea. Part of our psyche is what we’re aware of—our ego consciousness. Another part of the psyche that’s influencing us is our unconscious—both the personal unconscious (things we’ve chosen to keep hidden from our consciousness) and the collective unconscious (what Carl Jung described as containing archetypal energies that influence how we think, act and feel). By uncovering our hidden wisdom, we can make different conscious decisions.

The book has journaling prompts that encourage readers to answer some introspective questions about themselves, but it also has exercises like guided visualizations and shamanic journeys for tapping into their unconscious. This way, readers can gain a deeper understanding of themselves—what’s working or not working for them, and what they most want.

Do we have to be in a meditative state to access hidden wisdom?

It certainly helps. Most of us are immersed in the busyness of everyday life, where our sympathetic nervous system is guiding us, causing us to respond to events rather than relax and imagine what we might create for ourselves. Consequently, we’re not accessing insights that are below the surface of our awareness.

When we get into a meditative state, which is more relaxed, we’re not thinking about specific things. It’s kind of a diffuse awareness instead of a more focused one, so we’re more open to ideas and insights that we wouldn’t have been open to had we not been in that state. People get into that state through different means, such as psychotropic plants, shamanic rattling, sleep deprivation, extreme heat and cold, meditative breathing practices or being in nature.

Courtesy of Carl Greer

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The Father-Shaped Hole:

A Journey Through Loss, Identity and Healing

by Dan Bulf

There’s an ache I’ve come to understand deep within myself, a feeling that for years defied easy words. Then I heard it described, with startling clarity, as a hole in my soul—a hole in the shape of my father. That metaphor struck a chord, resonating with a truth I hadn’t fully articulated: The persistent echo of absence. It wasn't just a general sadness, but a void contoured precisely by the role occupied, the role never quite filled.

My soul doesn’t feel marked by a single absence, though, but more like a complex landscape shaped by the presence, absence and shifting influences of four different men that occupied the role of “father” in my life: my birth father, my adoptive father and two stepfathers. Each left his own imprint, contributing to a unique internal geography of connection, confusion, loss and longing.

The “hole” isn’t necessarily emptiness for me, but rather a territory mapped by questions. With four figures stepping into that role at different times, the ground beneath my feet often felt unsteady. Who was I in relation to each of them? What did “father” even mean when the definition kept changing?

Instead of one clear shape, it felt like overlapping outlines—moments of connection shadowed by departures, stability offered and then potentially withdrawn.

The space inside me feels molded by this very multiplicity. There’s the void left by my birth father, carrying questions of origin and belonging. There’s the relationship with my adoptive father, the man legally designated as “dad,” bringing its own unique dynamics of love and pain.

Then came my stepfathers, each introducing a new family structure, new hopes for connection, new experiences of adjustment and instability. Each relationship—whether present, absent, loving, difficult or temporary—carved its own contours into my understanding of

security, trust and male affection.

Living with this complex father-shaped landscape has inevitably colored my journey. The search for stability became paramount as the bedrock of that paternal role felt like shifting earth. Was I trying to find one person that could embody all the missing pieces from the four? Was I trying to avoid the potential for disappointment altogether?

I became driven to seek validation. It wasn’t just about earning one man’s approval, but about navigating the perceived expectations or judgments associated with each of these figures. Finding my own footing, trusting my own judgment, can feel like a monumental task. I would find myself constantly looking outward for confirmation, unsure of my own internal compass.

Healing, for me, hasn’t been about magically erasing the past or finding a single “answer”. It’s been a messy, ongoing process of untangling the threads. It involves looking honestly at each relationship and its impact, acknowledging the good and the difficult. It requires grieving multiple forms of loss: the loss of the idealized father figure, the loss of stability, the loss of connection.

Here are some approaches that I’ve used that focus on nurturing yourself and building new, healthy ways to address underlying needs:

Practice Self-Compassion

Directly address the inner void by practicing self-compassion. Learn to provide yourself with the validation and emotional support that was lacking, which is a powerful step in healing.

Connect With Other Men

Combat isolation and meet your needs for belonging by building genuine connections with other men, especially in support groups where shared experiences offer validation.

Seek Professional Support

Therapy provides a guided space to understand your father issues and unmet needs, helping you process experiences and develop healthier internal resources.

Understand Your Father as an Individual

Gain perspective, rather than change the past. Realize that, like all of

Photo courtesy

Dan Bulf

Dan Bulf

us, he is a flawed human being simply doing his best. A low-pressure activity like a walk, or approaching him with genuine curiosity about his life story, can sometimes provide new understanding and context.

Give Back by Supporting Other Men

Once more grounded, supporting other men on their journeys by responsibly sharing your story or mentoring can create a profound sense of purpose and connection.

These approaches focus on building from within and creating new, healthy patterns and connections—a more profound and lasting way to address the sense of a “hole” than seeking temporary or ill-fitting external “fillers”.

Living with this father-shaped hole isn’t about erasing the marks left by these four men. It’s about understanding the edges and depth. The goal no longer is a perfectly smooth, filled-in space, but a life built with consciousness and resilience—finding peace by understanding and embracing my own unique story.

Dan Bulf is a skilled facilitator who designs impactful experiences fostering self-discovery, connection and conscious action. He is a certified facilitator for MenLiving, specializing in crucial topics like death and dying, fatherhood and masculinity. Drawing from his passion as a registered yoga teacher, Bulf employs a connection-based approach, skillfully bringing playfulness and tenderness to even the most challenging conversations. Follow him on Facebook and Instagram at @danbulf.

Support Networks for Men: Resources for Connection and Growth

by Dan Bulf

Men’s support groups offer vital benefits, creating a safe space for emotional expression— often denied by societal pressures that leave many men feeling isolated and alone. By fostering a sense of community and belonging, these groups directly combat loneliness and improve mental well-being, reducing stress and anxiety. Participants can develop enhanced communication skills, leading to healthier relationships and authentic connections. This supportive environment encourages personal growth, self-awareness and accountability, empowering men to navigate challenges and redefine masculinity on their own terms—ultimately helping them feel understood and less alone in their experiences.

Here is a list of some available resources in the greater Chicagoland area; many also have chapters and groups in cities across the country.

A Call to Men

Contact: Visit ACallToMen.org

Evryman

Contact: Email Lucas Krump at Lucas@Evryman.com or visit Evryman.com

ManKind Project Chicago (MKP)

Contact: Email Jeff Sophian at JSophian1201@gmail.com or visit Chicago.mkpusa.org

MenLiving

Contact: Email Todd Adams at Todd@MenLiving.org or visit MenLiving.org

Path to Spirit-Warrior (P2SW)

Contact: Email David Lindgren at NextStep@PathToSpiritWarrior.com or visit PathToSpiritWarrior.com.

The Awakening Men’s Meetup Group

Contact: Email Roy Colver at RoyReliv@gmail.com or visit Meetup.com/the-awakening-mens-group.

The Crucible Project

Contact: Email Roy Wooten at RWooten@TheCrucibleProject.org or visit TheCrucibleProject.org.

Victories

Contact: Call or email Steve Zweiback at 312-604-5013, Admin@VictoriesForMen.org or visit VictoriesForMen.org.

To learn more about Support Networks for Men visit the Wise Words section at NAChicago.com

Men’s Skin Care Is Health Care

by Jai Dewith

Health care encompasses the prevention, maintenance, restoration and improvement of one’s physical, mental and emotional well-being. Yet “skin care” is often viewed as purely aesthetic—focused only on beauty and the body’s surface.

But skin care is much more than that. It involves the entire body and even the hair—not just the face. The skin is not only our body’s largest organ; it also reflects what’s happening inside us, and vice versa. Just as we maintain routines to support physical and mental health, we need one for our skin. Hydration, exercise, nutrition and sleep benefit the whole body—including the skin.

Men’s skin has the same issues and complexities as women’s. A consistent skin care routine is essential for everyone. While many women are introduced to skin care at an early age, the same guidance is often missing for men. Everyone benefits from learning how to care for their skin from a young age.

Still, many men believe they don’t need a routine or don’t have time for one—that their skin is fine as it is. But healthy skin requires attention, regardless of gender.

Signs That a Skin Care Routine Is Needed

• Dull, lifeless skin (face and/or body)

• Dry, flaky, itchy, red, sensitive or over oily skin on the face, scalp or back

• Breakouts or persistent dry patches

• Cracked, calloused, itchy, sweaty or fungal-prone skin on the hands, feet or private areas

• Dry, oily or smelly hair or beard

• Razor bumps, ingrown hairs or beard-related skin irritation

• Ongoing physical illness affecting skin health

Exercising, playing sports, wearing headgear or body gear, tight clothing or shoes, going to the gym, or working in environments with poor ventilation or dust all increase the skin’s need for extra care and nourishment. Add to that an unhealthy diet or hereditary health concerns, and it becomes clear why skin requires special attention. As with any aspect of well-being, developing a healthy skin care routine can be challenging at first—but it doesn’t have to be complicated. It helps to think of it like learning a new sport. With time and intention, we can find the right products and routine to support our skin’s health.

A Simple and Quick Skin Care Routine

Remember: Our skin is delicate, regardless of the problems it might have. Treat it well.

Face

Wash your face at least once a day—always after a workout or before bed. Morning cleansing depends on your skin type. If you have oily skin or are prone to breakouts, wash in the morning, too.

Use a mild facial soap. Over-cleansing can be just as harmful as not cleansing at all, stripping the skin of its natural oils. Your face is exposed to the elements all day—keeping it hydrated helps maintain its protective barrier. Even oily skin needs moisture.

Rinse with cold water to finish. It closes the pores and keeps the skin firm and radiant. Pat gently with a towel and leave the skin slightly damp.

Photo by Michael Cunningham/peopleimages.com for Adobe Stock

Apply moisturizer or serum while the skin is still damp. Follow with sunscreen if needed.

Reapply moisturizer or serum anytime your skin feels dry. Keep a small container with you for on-the-go use.

Exfoliate daily with a soft cloth. This promotes blood circulation and cell regeneration.

Use a deep facial mask based on your skin type: once a week for oily or damaged skin, every other week for combination skin, and once a month for normal or dry skin.

Body

Use a mild soap. Avoid over-cleansing (see number two under face care).

Moisturize immediately after showering. Always.

Exfoliate gently with a soft brush or cloth.

Feet

Treat your feet like your hands. Healthy feet beget a happy body. Don’t hesitate to see a pedicurist when needed.

Always wash and exfoliate with a separate scrub brush.

Always dry thoroughly and moisturize.

Remember: We are not only what we eat, but also what we absorb through our skin. That’s why it’s important to pay attention to both our diet and how we care for our skin.

By incorporating simple, mindful skin care practices into our routine, we can support our overall health and well-being, ensuring that our skin looks and feels its best, day after day.

Jai Dewith is the co-founder of Rocio Sagrado, a family-owned skin care company based in Woodstock, offering a complete line of all-natural products. For more information, visit RocioSagrado.com. See ad on page 14 and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

NATURAL AWAKENINGS CHICAGO

Connect, share and grow with Natural Awakenings Chicago’s Energy & Healing Arts Network (EHAN) — a dedicated monthly section designed for local practitioners and businesses to spotlight offerings, connect with our readers and foster meaningful connections.

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ENERGY HEALING

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MOON PHASES OF LIFE MINISTRY

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Making Joyful Summer Memories

by Marlaina Donato

June is nature’s reminder that life is meant to be savored, something that we often forget in our daily routines. It is the month of invitations to abandon our more serious sides, urging us to sink our teeth into local strawberry festivals, making a sticky mess with sweet harvests dripping down our chins. June is also the month of bridal satin, languid dinners on the patio and celebrating Dad with a hearty barbecue.

On the flip side, June can carry the weight of a father’s absence, but such reminders

can offer more reasons to dance to a new rhythm with a willingness to reinvent personal summer traditions. Many of us can’t forget the euphoria we felt long ago on the last day of school before summer break. Although life has taken us far from our carefree childhood summers, we can still tap into the season’s potential for levity.

Living summer to the fullest doesn’t require a lengthy European vacation or a zip lining excursion through exotic jungles. All we need are a few inspiring plans

that gently encourage our full presence and attention. Letting in some joy can be as simple as planting a patio garden of less common delights like pineapple sage, chocolate mint or cinnamon basil; making homemade lavender lemonade; bringing home fresh flowers every week; or reading a feel-good novel. Even making a small change, like buying a new pair of glittery sandals or stylish sunglasses to wear during ordinary trips to the market, can infuse a new sense of excitement into the season.

Here are some suggestions for creating new summer memories:

• Go to a favorite café with a best buddy on National Best Friends Day (June 8).

• Participate in a drum circle during the Strawberry Moon (June 11) or Summer Solstice (June 20).

• Have a picnic under the stars using a reliable constellation application. Visit Space.com/best-stargazing-apps for recommendations.

• Eat breakfast in the garden or enjoy iced coffee under a tree in the park.

• Invite a companion for a drive with the windows down, good music on and no set destination.

Marlaina Donato is an author, composer and painter. Connect at WildflowersAndWoodSmoke.com.

LGBTQ++ Pride Month

June

Reflexology Certification Program Begins – A 5-month certification program for individuals looking to become certified reflexologists. Program covers anatomy, physiology, reflexology techniques and client assessment. The Professional Reflexology School, 7321 W Montrose Ave, Norridge. 773-979-5351. JJahal@hotmail.com. JasminReflexology.com.

Sunday, June 1

Tibetan Bowl Sound Bath Healing – 1011:30am. Experience Chakra cleansing, balancing, deep relaxation and spiritual connection. Creating a totally peaceful environment in and around you with individual Tibetan Bowls placed on and around your body during a group session. Then each participant gets an individual experience of crown to root chakra resonance by standing in a 21-inch bowl and head capped with a 13.5-inch bowl. $49. The Chakra Shoppe, 5034 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago. 773-271-3054. ChakraShoppe.com.

Monday, June 2

Leslie Goddard Presents Lady Bird Johnson – 6:30-8pm. In this humorous, poignant, and insightful portrayal, actress and historian Leslie Goddard brings the gracious Lady Bird to life. As she welcomes visitors, she reminisces on her years in Washington and how she forged her path as a first lady. Co-sponsored by the Darien Garden Club. Online and in-person. Indian Prairie Public Library, 401 Plainfield Rd, Darien. IPPL.libcal.com/event/14226501.

Tuesday, June 3

ONLINE: Navigating Uncertain Times –7-7:45pm. This moment in our world challenges us in ways we never imagined. From changes in relationships to jobs to the economy and more, true security and stability are inside jobs. $15-$25 suggested donation. Zoom. Sarah Karnes: 262-7458362. Register: Meetup.com/spiritual-nourishment-chicagoland.

Wednesday, June 4

Try It at Monee Reservoir – 4-6pm. School’s out for summer. It’s the perfect chance to try something new: free mini-kayak overview with staff; fishing with one of our free poles and bait samples; yard games with your family and friends; roasted s’more by the campfire. Free. Monee Reservoir, 27341 S Ridgeland Ave, Monee. ReconnectWithNature.org.

Green Drinks McHenry County – 5-7pm. 1st Wed. In-person & Zoom. Duke’s Alehouse & Kitchen, 110 N Main St, Crystal Lake. GreenDrinks.org/IL/Crystal%20Lake.

Men’s Yoga for Better Health – 6-7:15pm. Yoga for men, all levels welcome. Explore increased flexibility and movement, reduced stress, improved breathing, find your calm and your center. Mats provided. $20. Chicago Male Clinic, 4801 W Peterson Ave, Ste 506, Chicago. RSVP: 773-414-9900. ChicagoMaleClinic.com.

Thursday, June 5

World Environment Day

Sound Bath – 7-8pm. Join Frances Murphy, certified sound healer, for a guided sound bath where you will hear and feel the sounds and vibrations of crystal singing bowls, crystal singing pyramid, chimes and other sound instruments. $25. The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center, 259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines. 847-299-6535. HolisticCenterChicago.com.

Friday, June 6

See NAChicago.com for latest events.

Saturday, June 7

Eid Ul-Adha (Islam)

Sunday, June 8

World Oceans Day

Healings by Victoria  – June 8-10. 10am5pm. A gifted practitioner who trained and worked at the Edgar Cayce A.R.E. Holistic Center, Victoria offers a unique blend of therapeutic massage and customized healing sessions based on Cayce’s renowned methodologies. $111/1 hr. Sacred Ground, 19 E Miner, Arlington Heights. 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com.

Living History: Little Critters – 12-3pm. Experience local history up close and personal. Discover the little critters that enriched, and even made life possible, in the 18th century Free. Isle a la Cache Museum, 501 E Romeo Rd, Romeoville. ReconnectWithNature.org.

Sound Meditation – 7pm. Also June 22. $20. Becky’s Healing Touch and Sound, 610 W Roosevelt Rd, Wheaton. Tinyurl.com/y2aeb328.

Monday, June 9

Coral Triangle Day

Empowered Change – 9am-4pm. Perimenopause, menopause, post-menopausal. Learn where and how you fit in to aid your clients as best you can as their bodies transition through these stages of life. 6 CEs. $150. Zen Shiatsu Chicago, 818 Lake St, Evanston. 847-864-1130. ZenShiatsuChicago.edu.

Tuesday, June 10

Celtic Tree Month of Oak begins Green Drinks Libertyville  – 6:30pm. 2nd Tues. Cafe Pomigliano/PostTime Bar & Grill, 13860 Rockland Rd, Green Oaks. Facebook.com/greendrinkslibertyville or GreenDrinks.org.

Strawberry Full Moon Sound Healing –7-9pm. Celebrate the Strawberry Moon with the sounds of multiple crystal bowls and Marian McNair’s beautiful voice. Participants can feel the vibrations activating every cell for greater healing. $40, $35/10 days advance. Infinity Foundation, 1280 Old Skokie Rd, Highland Park. 847-831-8828. InfinityFoundation.org.

Free Intro to Akashic Records – 8pm (following Community Meditation). with Dr. Helen Gitlevich. Offers a gateway into the powerful realm of the Akashic Records, a divine, energetic archive that holds the history of your soul across all lifetimes. Sacred Ground, 19 E Miner, Arlington Heights. 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com.

Wednesday, June 11

Full Moon – Strawberry Moon, Blooming Moon

Plug Into Nature for Teens: The Prairie –1-2:30pm. Ages 13-18. Program introduces you to the Seek, iNaturalist and Merlin apps all while hiking and exploring the prairie at Goodenow Grove. Then take part in an inspiring prairie nature photography and go on a scavenger hunt. Free. Plum Creek Nature Center, 27064 S Dutton Rd, Beecher. Register by June 9: 708-946-2216 or ReconnectWithNature.org.

Kundalini Yoga: Awaken Your Inner Energy – 5-6:30pm. With Harmony Pavett. $35. Harmonic Egg Naperville, 1801 N Mill St, Ste L, Naperville. 630-780-0193. HarmonicEgg-Naperville.com.

Men’s Yoga for Better Health – 6-7:15pm. See June 4 listing. Chicago Male Clinic, 4801 W Peterson Ave, Ste 506, Chicago. RSVP: 773-414-9900. ChicagoMaleClinic.com.

MenLiving: Where Men Find Connection and Support – 6:30pm. With Dan Bulf. Provides online and in-person spaces for men to craft healthier, more fulfilling lives. Free. Heaven Meets Earth, 2746 Central St, Evanston. Tinyurl.com/56t58pfj.

ONLINE: Practical Self-Care – 7-7:45pm. Join us for TLC and self-care so you can discover a kinder, calmer, more empowered version of you. With Sarah Karnes. $15-$25 donation. Zoom. Sarah Karnes: 262-7458362. Register: Meetup.com/spiritual-nourishment-chicagoland.

Thursday, June 12

Loving Day

Spa Discovery Day for Seniors – 8:3010am. Ages 55 or older. Join us as we discover what parts of nature help us feel relaxed and centered and the why behind the science. $5. Plum Creek Nature Center, 27064 S Dutton Rd, Beecher. Register by June 11: 708-946-2216 or ReconnectWithNature.org.

Sacred Cacao Ceremony and Sound Bath –6:30-8pm. A magical evening of transformation, community, connection and support. Space for 12-20 Awakened Souls. $60. Reach Yoga, 688 Vernon Ave, Glencoe. Register: 847-786-4211 or ReachYogaGlencoe.com.

ONLINE: Life Mission Exploration –7-7:45pm. Personally guided by Sarah Karnes, you will develop a more compassionate and loving relationship with your body, mind and spirit. $15-$25 donation. Zoom. Sarah Karnes: 262-745-8362. Register: Meetup.com/spiritual-nourishment-chicagoland.

Friday, June 13

See NAChicago.com for latest events.

Saturday, June 14

SAVE THE DATE

Infinity Foundation Closing Ceremony Celebration 10am

Join Infinity Foundation for the last time to celebrate the completion of a 28-yr. journey. This is a celebration for all that has been accomplished with our community. Infinity Foundation will no longer continue in its current form, but ripples of its work will live on in the lives it has touched. Free.

Infinity Foundation 1280 Old Skokie Rd, Highland Park. 847-831-8828

Registration required: InfinityFoundation.org.

Crochet for Wildlife – 10am-12pm. Join a naturalist who will guide you through the crochet pattern to crochet small nests that will be used in wildlife rehabilitation centers across the country. Free. Hidden Lakes Trout Farm, Hidden Oaks Preserve, 475 Trout Farm Rd, Bolingbrook. Register by June 12: 815-722-4121 or ReconnectWithNature.org.

Pollinator Party – 10am-2pm. Get a head start on celebrating Pollinator Week 2025 at this family-friendly event. There will be something fun for everyone. Free. Isle a la Cache Museum, 501 E Romeo Rd, Romeoville. ReconnectWithNature.org.

Mercado de Intercambio – 11am-3pm. Davis Square Park, corner of 45th and Marshfield, Chicago. PlantChicago.org.

ONLINE: Chicago IANDS – 2pm. Support/ study/resource forum for near-death, outof-body and spiritual experiences, losses. Guest Speaker: Andrea Courey, M Ed, NDEr, award-winning entrepreneur, author, lecturer, Dobson Fellow, sound meditation facilitator. Become a free subscriber to Chicago IANDS by filling in the form online. $20 tax-deductible donation requested (see website). For more info: 847-251-5758 or ChicagoIANDS.org.

ONLINE: Our Soul Journey in Earth & Spiritual Dimensions – 2-5pm. Our past incarnations on Earth deeply influence our physical body, emotional patterns and personality. Learn how your astrology chart provides clues about your planetary sojourns and current spiritual lessons. $56. Webinar. HolisticCenterChicago.com.

Sunday, June 15

Global Wind Day

Father’s Day

Nature Photography Day

Monday, June 16

World Sea Turtle Day

Sustainability Research and Innovation Congress 2025 – 9am-5pm. SRI is an annual convening focused on action-forward, knowledge-based and inclusive approaches to sustainability. SRI2025 will be the first time the Congress is held in the United States. $750 Early Bird. Sheraton Chi, 301 East North Water Street, Chicago. SRICongress.org.

Beginning Zen Shiatsu – Mondays, June 16-Aug 18. 10am-1pm. Learn how to give a basic 1-hr shiatsu treatment that you can share with friends and family. Course is a stand-alone offering and is also the first 30 hrs of our complete shiatsu certification programs. $500 plus textbook. Zen Shiatsu Chicago, 818 Lake St, Evanston. 847-864-1130. ZenShiatsuChicago.edu.

Tuesday, June 17

World Day to Combat Desertification & Drought

Wednesday, June 18

Men’s Yoga for Better Health – 6-7:15pm. See June 4 listing. Chicago Male Clinic, 4801 W Peterson Ave, Ste 506, Chicago. RSVP: 773-414-9900. ChicagoMaleClinic.com.

Thursday, June 19

Juneteenth

Acupuncture & Reiki Stress-Reduction Hour – 5-6:30pm. 3rd Thur. Curious about acupuncture and/or reiki? We invite you to join us for this informational and experiential event. Discover for yourself the deep relaxation that is possible with these modalities. $10 suggested donation. Calandra Center for Health and Wellness, 830 E Higgins Rd, Unit 116, Schaumburg. 312-796-3965. CalandraAcupuncture.com.

So You Want to Be a Medium? – 7-9pm. Join Blanche Blacke in learning about mediumship, communicating with the spirit world, and connecting with loved ones who have passed. Discover if you have a natural gift and take steps to develop your own unique connection. Or simply come for an opportunity to be with a dear departed and witness others experience theirs. $39. The Chakra Shoppe, 5034 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago. 773-271-3054. ChakraShoppe.com.

Friday, June 20

Litha (Wiccan)

Summer Solstice World Refugee Day

SAVE THE DATE

Oneness Fest

June 20-22

Embark on an extraordinary journey and discover a world of unity and transformation. This 3-day festival promises an immersive experience filled with 150+ workshops, yoga, tai chi, breathwork, activities, live music (2 stages), camping, 80+ vendors, Kids Korner, energy healing/massage station, community bonfire, fire spinning and a profound sense of oneness. NaturalAwakenings for 22% off festival registration. Good Templar Park 528 East Side Dr, Geneva AwakeOnenessTribe.org/onenessfest

Gong Sound Bath Meditation – 6-7:30pm. With Harmony Pavett. $35. Harmonic Egg Naperville, 1801 N Mill St, Ste L, Naperville. 630-780-0193. HarmonicEgg-Naperville.com.

Wheel of the Year Celebrations: Litha – 7-8:30pm. Litha, also known as the Summer Solstice, is a celebration of light, warmth, and the fullness of life, with many traditions honoring the sun’s power and vitality during this time. Celebrate with food, crafts, meditation and ritual. $50. Sacred Ground, 19 E Miner, Arlington Heights. 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com.

Saturday, June 21

World Giraffe Day

Turning Your Chicago Yard into a Native Pollinator Pocket – 9am. With Kim Smollen. Possibility Place Nursery, 7548 W Monee-Manhattan Rd, Monee. 708-534-3988. PossibilityPlace.com.

Free 4 All – 9am-12pm. 3rd Sat. A garage sale where everything is free. Unity Spiritual Center of Woodstock, 225 W Calhoun St, Woodstock. 815-337-3534. UnityWoodstock.org.

Health Clarified’s Open House – 10am2pm. Enjoy live demonstrations, giveaways, light refreshments and a chance to meet the growing team. Features hands-on experiences with popular holistic services and sample modalities in the clinic’s energy room. 2165 Shermer Rd, Ste A, Northbrook. 224-344-8668. HealthClarifiedNow.com.

Crystal Energy Healings – 11am-3pm. Have your energy aligned and rebalanced by our crystal expert and sensitive empath, Janal. Learn techniques to ground and center and open your energy field with the use of crystals. $80/1 hr. Sacred Ground, 19 E Miner, Arlington Heights. 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com.

Crystals for Empaths, Highly Sensitive People – 2-3:30pm. Activate and strengthen your energy field with Light, sound, angels, crystals, essential oils, mantras. Learn how to distinguish when feelings are your own or from others. $30. The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center, 259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines. 847-299-6535. HolisticCenterChicago.com.

Summer Solstice Kirtan: An Evening of Sacred Sound, Intention and Connection –6-8pm; doors open at 5pm. A heart-opening evening of mantra, music and sacred community, led by Harmony Pavett, Muriel Reymond, Michael Henry and Ken Pavett. Let the vibration of sacred sound clear the way for fresh energy and soulful connection. $25. The Journeys Path, 946 N Neltnor Blvd, West Chicago. 630-473-0377. Tinyurl.com/26sxmm6z.

Sunday, June 22

World Rainforest Day

A Week of Yoga Meditation for the Soul – June 22-28. Join thousands of yogis around the world, during a free, weeklong immersion in the yoga meditation teachings of Paramahansa Yogananda, author of Autobiography of a Yogi, and founder of Self-Realization Fellowship. Daily talks led by monks and nuns of Self-Realization Fellowship offer practical insights for navigating the challenges of daily life. Online: Convocation.Yogananda.org.

Dog Admission Day – 7am-sunset. Hit the trails, at The Morton Arboretum, with your canine friend. $5/dog. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Rte 53, Lisle. 630-968-0074. Reservations required: MortonArb.org.

Walk In and Watercolor – 11am-3pm. Relax and get inspired as you hike outside and check out the art exhibit by local watercolor artist Robert Hafey. Then find your own groove and experiment with watercolor paints. Free. Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, 25055 W Walnut Ln, Channahon. ReconnectWithNature.org.

Flower Essence & Astral Energy Healing – 2-5pm. Linda Maratea and Richard Popp work as a team to help you heal your specific issues on different levels. $80. The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center, 259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines. 847-299-6535. HolisticCenterChicago.com.

Sound Meditation – 7pm. $20. Becky’s Healing Touch and Sound, 610 W Roosevelt Rd, Wheaton. Tinyurl.com/y2aeb328.

Monday, June 23

Stretching the Emotions – 10am-5pm. This hands-on training will demonstrate easy to learn stretches for both the physical and energetic bodies. Be introduced to the concept of how the emotions are recognized and expressed in the view of Chinese Medicine and the Meridian System. 6 CEs. $150. Zen Shiatsu Chicago, 818 Lake St, Evanston. 847-864-1130. ZenShiatsuChicago.edu.

Tuesday, June 24

See NAChicago.com for latest events.

Wednesday, June 25

New Moon – Moon of Long Daylight

Kundalini Yoga: Awaken Your Inner Energy – 5-6:30pm. With Harmony Pavett. $35. Harmonic Egg Naperville, 1801 N Mill St, Ste L, Naperville. 630-780-0193. HarmonicEgg-Naperville.com.

Men’s Yoga for Better Health – 6-7:15pm. See June 4 listing. Chicago Male Clinic, 4801 W Peterson Ave, Ste 506, Chicago. RSVP: 773-414-9900. ChicagoMaleClinic.com.

Thursday, June 26

Al Hijra begins at sundown (Islam)

Friday, June 27

How to Assess Soils: A Hands-On Workshop – 10am. With Michelle Catania. Possibility Place Nursery, 7548 W Monee-Manhattan Rd, Monee. 708-534-3988. PossibilityPlace.com.

TGIF Bike Ride – 6-7:30pm. The ride will take us up through Hickory Creek Preserve and loop back to downtown Frankfort, delivering you to your Friday night just in time to grab dinner or drinks with friends you bring along or new ones you meet on the ride. Experienced riders only. Free. Meets on the Old Plank Road Trail in downtown Frankfort just south of the historic Frankfort Grainery. Register by June 24: 815-727-8700 or ReconnectWithNature.org.

Saturday, June 28

Two-Day Akashic Records Workshop – June 28-29. 10am-4:30pm. With Dr Helen Gitlevich. This immersive class is both structured and Spirit-led, guided by a comprehensive manual as well as the unique energy and needs of those present. $555. Sacred Ground, 19 E Miner, Arlington Heights. 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com.

My father considered a walk among the mountains as the equivalent of churchgoing.

—Aldous Huxley

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Sunday, June 29

SAVE THE DATE

Inner Peace Retreat June 29-July 2

Offers meditation, energy meditation, tapping, reiki, a sound bath, dinner at the Pentwater Yacht Club and more. Pentwater, MI.

Heaven Meets Earth: LisaYoga@comcast.net or HeavenMeetsEarthYoga.com

Round Robin Reiki – 9am-3:30pm. A day of deep healing with multiple gifted practitioners, each bringing unique modalities to elevate your healing journey. For one special price of $100, experience a total 80min session (20 mins with 4 Reiki Masters). 12 appts available. The Agape House, 416 E Roosevelt Rd, Ste 107, Wheaton. Register: 630-294-5225 or Tinyurl.com/37rcmjdx.

Crystal Grids: Level 1 – 2-4pm. Experience the power of sending your intentions to the Universe with a crystal grid. Learn about the various types of crystal grids and how to build them. $40. The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center, 259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines. 847-299-6535. HolisticCenterChicago.com.

Monday, June 30

See NAChicago.com for latest events.

Thursday, July 17

SAVE THE DATE

US Psychotronics Association Golden Anniversary Conference July 17-20. 8-9:30pm, Thurs; 8am-9:30pm, Fri/Sat; 8am-5pm, Sun

Celebrating 50 years of Mind-Body Technologies: Psychotronics, Radionics, Subtle Energy, Bio Fields, Free Energy and more. Searching the New Horizons of Science and Consciousness, with over 20 speakers, vendors, workshops and breakout sessions. Crystal Lake, Illinois Holiday Inn, Elara Ballroom 800 S Illinois Rte 31, Crystal Lake 815-355-8030

Psychotronics.org

Friday, August 8

SAVE THE DATE

Sacred Connections Retreat Aug 8-11

Featuring ceremony, healing, yoga, bodywork, essential oils, healthful meals and more.

Anaway Place in Richland Center, WI. Heaven Meets Earth: LisaYoga@comcast.net or HeavenMeetsEarthYoga.com

Saturday, September 6

SAVE THE DATE

TheosoFEST Mind, Body, Spirit Festival 10am-5pm

Includes talks on meditation, Buddhism, holistic healing and more. Vegetarian food, a holistic marketplace showcasing more than 100 vendors, a festive Kids’ Korner, intuitive readings, labyrinth walks, tai chi and yoga, and more. Admission free, $5 parking. Theosophical Society 1926 N Main St, Wheaton 630-668-1571 x 315 Theosophical.org/theosofest

Friday, September 19

SAVE THE DATE

Women’s Mycelium Mysteries Conference

Sept 19-21

Hosted by Midwest Women’s Herbal. Features workshops and mushroom forays covering diverse topics such as cultivation techniques, culinary delights, medicinal applications, wild harvesting and the art of mushroom and tree identification. Speakers including ecologist and author Dr. Alison Pouliot; mycophile, author and photographer Barbora Batokova; and mycologist and biologist Sarah Foltz Jordan. Almond, WI

Tickets & to register:  MidwestWomensHerbal.com

Sunday, October 12

SAVE THE DATE

Illuminate Naperville 10am-5pm

Features vetted intuitive readers, crystals, essential oils, original art, energy healing including reiki, crystal jewelry, luxurious spa products, handmade gifts, free workshops and more.

Chicago Marriott Naperville 1801 N Naper Blvd, Naperville IlluminateFestivals.com

Saturday, November 1

SAVE THE DATE

17th Annual Green Living Expo 10am-3pm

Enjoy interactive opportunities, including renewable energy and solar displays, composting demonstrations, green home solutions, eco-gift shopping and tours of the college’s student farm and new buildings.

McHenry County College 8900 US Hwy 14, Crystal Lake. McHenry.edu/greenexpo

Ongoing Events

Daily

1:1 Private Yoga Tune Up Instruction –Roll Model Method, Mental Performance and Functional Movement Screening. Virtual or In-Person (Wheaton or Chicago). JulieMackey.com.

Ash & Willow Spring Deal – Thru June. Get a free Express Facial with any Lash Lift. Receive a free complimentary strip lash or individual lash add on with any makeup appointment with Christy. Ash & Willow, 610 Devon Ave, Park Ridge. 847-696-7560. AshWillowSalon.com.

Bridges of Will County – Thru June 30. This spring, adventure out to 5 select preserves and find your way to each bridge to earn a Forest Preserve canvas tote bag. Free. Details: ReconnectWithNature.org.

Smithsonian Gardens’ “Pollination Investigation” Exhibit – 10am-4pm, WedSun. Exhibit takes participants on an exploration of the who, what, when, where, why and how of pollination by interpreting the unique relationship between pollinators and flowers. Free. Isle a la Cache Museum, 501 E Romeo Rd, Romeoville. ReconnectWithNature.org.

Healing Music Sessions – 1-6pm, Sat/Sun; 9am-6pm, Mon-Thurs. Life Rhythms helps those in assisted living homes, memory loss facilities and private residences participate in making and sharing music on an individual and group level 7 days a week. The 1-hr sessions, inclusive of all instruments, improve hand-eye coordination, stimulate cognitive abilities and promote wellness. LifeRhythmsInc.com.

Naturally Purifying and Supercharging Your Body Podcast – 7-7:45pm. Matthew Hazen is the owner of Human Consciousness Support, a company that produces a unique nutraceutical product called MasterPeace. Free. BuzzSprout.com/1206776/14236700.

Sunday

Chicago Meditation Center of Self-Realization Fellowship Services – 9am, Energization Exercises; Kirtan held the 4th Sun, 9-10:40am; 9:30-10:40am, Yoga Meditation; 11am-12pm, Reading Service. 946 N Harlem Ave, River Forest. 708-366-0140. ChicagoMeditationCenter.org.

Glenwood Sunday Market – June 1-Oct 26. 9am-2pm. Closed June 29 & Aug 17. Glenwood Ave between Morse & Lunt Aves, Rogers Park. GlenwoodSundayMarket. rpba.org.

Revive and Restore – 10am. With Dan Bulf. Burn Boot Camp Evanston, 9412 Skokie Blvd, Skokie. Tinyurl.com/y9avumwf.

Kundalini Yoga & Meditation – 10-11:30am. Join us for weekly Kundalini Yoga classes to work your body, relieve your mind and

uplift your spirit. Schedule: Mon & Wed, 9:30am; Sat: 6pm; Sun: 10am & 4:30pm. All levels. $21. Inspire Yoga & Wellness Center, 1100 Nerge Rd, Ste 208, Elk Grove Village. 312-593-4366. InspireYogaWellness.com.

Rocio Sagrado at the Farmers Market+ at the Dole – 10am-2pm. Truly handmade, 100% pure skincare, balms, deodorants, soaps, aromatherapeutic fragrances and roll-ons, and insect repellent made with plants and flowers from our garden. Farmers Market+ at the Dole Mansion, 400 Country Club Rd, Crystal. FarmersMarketAtTheDole.org.

Free Aura Reading – 10:30-11:45am. Also Sat, 11:15am-12:15pm. Learn more about your chakra energy system and manifest your dreams. Body & Brain, 1947 Cherry Ln, Northbrook. RSVP: 847-562-9642. BodyNBrain.com/northbrook.

Musical Brunch – 11am-2pm. Also Sat. Featuring local talents. Madame Zuzu’s, 1876 1st St, Highland Park. Details: LifeRhythmsInc.com.

5Rthyms Ecstatic Dance – 1-2:30pm. With Clay Henley. A dynamic practice to both workout and meditate in the same breath. Class pass or $30/drop-in. Heaven Meets Earth, 2746 Central St, Evanston. 847-4751500. HeavenMeetsEarthYoga.com.

Hot Power – 3pm. With Dan Bulf. CorePower Yoga Winnetka, 850 Green Bay Rd, Winnetka. Tinyurl.com/zrx62jbd.

Live Music at The Fat Shallot – 3-6pm. $10 suggested donation. The Fat Shallot, 2902 Central St, Evanston. LifeRhythmsInc.com.

C1 Foundations – 4:30pm. With Dan Bulf. CorePower Yoga Winnetka, 850 Green Bay Rd, Winnetka. Tinyurl.com/zrx62jbd.

Immersive Sound Bath Journey – 6pm. With Rebecca. Ash & Willow, 610 Devon Ave, Park Ridge. 847-696-7560. AshWillowSalon.com/thenest.

Monday

Yoga Workout – 7pm. With Mary Lou. A dynamic blend of movement, strength and flow. Ash & Willow, 610 Devon Ave, Park Ridge. 847-696-7560. AshWillowSalon.com/ thenest.

Open Level Yoga – 7:30-9pm. With Agnieszka Poniedzialki. In Polish and English. $20. Northshore Healing Centre, 6185 N Canfield Ave, Chicago. 847-588-0370. nshealing.com.

ONLINE: Ascension Tribe Weekly Monday Night Energy Tune-Up – 8pm. Zoom. Register for free: TryAscensionTribe. com.

Tuesday

Lomi Lomi (Hawaiian Massage) – Also Thurs. With Kasia. Ash & Willow, 610 Devon Ave, Park Ridge. 847-696-7560. AshWillowSalon.com/thenest.

Kobido Massage – Also Thurs. With Kasia. Rejuvenate with an ancient Japanese facial massage that lifts, tones and deeply relaxes. Ash & Willow, 610 Devon Ave, Park Ridge. 847-696-7560. AshWillowSalon.com.

Rocio Sagrado at the Woodstock Farmers Market – 8am-1pm. Truly handmade, 100% pure skincare, balms, deodorants, soaps, aromatherpeutic fragrances and roll-ons, and insect repellent made with plants and flowers from our garden. Woodstock Farmers Market, 112 S Benton St, Woodstock. WoodstockFarmersMarket.org.

Cultivating Guts Podcast: New Episode Release – 9am. Tiffany Hinton’s podcast where we discuss gardening, homesteading, gut health, following our intuition, herbalism and functional medicine to create a life of joy and beauty. Listen on Spotify, YouTube and iTunes. Free. Tinyurl.com/CultivatingG.

Tummy Whisperer Podcast – 1:30pm. With Renee Barasch. Listeners can hear her speak live on Apple, Spotify and Facebook, or listen to the podcast at any time. Episode 1, “The Importance of Gut Health: Exploring the World of Digestive Wellness,” is available for 24/7 streaming. For more info: 847-207-2034 or DigestiveHealthSolutions.com.

Mobility and Mental Performance for Athletes  – 5pm. Also Thurs. With Julie Mackey. Major Sports Performance, 929 W Liberty Dr, Wheaton. Register: MajorSportsIL.com/recovery.

Dinner With the Doctors: Health Classes – 6:30-7:30pm. 2nd & 4th Tues. New to our practice and wanting to see if we are the right fit? Returning patient wanting to understand more deeply what you’ve been experiencing? Enjoy demonstrations and time for Q+A with the docs to learn and experience how they work. Free dinner provided; RSVP required in order for food to be prepared. Free. Be Optimal Holistic Health Center, 5225 Old Orchard Rd, Ste 31, Skokie. 847-486-8000. BeOptimal.com.

Group Silent Meditation – 6:30-7:30pm & 7:35-8:35pm. Silent group meditation in a quiet, secular space that welcomes all walks of life. The center is our labor of love and your presence is deeply appreciated as we share an hour of silence together. Optional donation. Camino Wellness Center, 401 S Milwaukee Ave, Ste 230, Wheeling. 224-300-0499. CaminoWellnessCenter.com.

Community Meditation – 7-8pm. Doors close at 7:05pm. Different topics each week. Facilitator changes weekly. Walk-ins welcome. Love donation. Sacred Ground, 15 E Miner St, Arlington Heights. 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com.

Monthly Women’s Circle – 7:30-9pm. 1st Tues. A monthly gathering to celebrate the Sacred Feminine, to unite in sisterhood and community. We create a safe circle of compassion, healing and joy. Where we open our hearts to life and one another, share anything that needs to be shared, provide generous listening to our sisters, meditate, sing, dance, and create com-

munity and friendships. Free; graciously accepting donations. RSVP preferred but not required. Northshore Healing Centre, 6185 N Canfield Ave, Chicago. 847-430-3115. NSHealing.com.

Calling Athletes – 8-8:55pm. Improve mental conditioning and mobility with meditation and Roll Model Method (myofascial release) with Julie Mackey, E-RYT 500 and Mental Performance Coach. $25/ class. Major Sports Performance, 929 W Liberty Dr, Wheaton. Registration required: 630-349-2581. JulieMackey.com.

Wednesday

Green City Market: Lincoln Park – 7am1pm. Lincoln Park, 1817 N Clark St, Chicago. GreenCityMarket.org.

Ravinia Farmers Market – Thru Oct 29. 7am-1pm. Jens Jensen Park, 486 Roger Williams Ave, Highland Park. RaviniaFarmersMarket.com.

Rocio Sagrado at the Ravinia Farmers Market – 7am-1pm. Truly handmade, 100% pure skincare, balms, deodorants, soaps, aromatherapeutic fragrances and roll-ons, and insect repellent made with plants and flowers from our garden. Jens Jensen Park, 486 Roger Williams Ave, Highland Park. RavinaFarmersMarket.com.

Farm on Ogden Market – 11am-5pm. WedSat. Indoor year-round market. 3555 W Ogden Ave, Chicago. ChicagoBotanic.org/ urbanagriculture/farm_on_ogden.

Men’s Yoga for Better Health – 6-7:15pm. Yoga for men, all levels welcome. Explore increased flexibility and movement, reduced stress, improved breathing, find your calm and your center. Mats provided. $20. Chicago Male Clinic, 4801 W Peterson Ave, Ste 506, Chicago. RSVP: 773-414-9900. ChicagoMaleClinic.com.

Open Level Yoga – 7-8:15pm. Also Sat, 9-10:15am. With Gosia. In Polish and English. $22. Northshore Healing Centre, 6185 N Canfield Ave, Chicago. 847-588-0370. nshealing.com.

Thursday

Lomi Lomi (Hawaiian Massage) – Also Thurs. With Kasia. Ash & Willow, 610 Devon Ave, Park Ridge. 847-696-7560. AshWillowSalon.com/thenest.

What Do You Like to Eat? – 8am-5pm. Persons who live in Chicagoland, ages 20 - 79 years who can be counted as members of 13 cultural communities, are asked to meet with a researcher for both a 1-to1 interview and a survey on what they like to eat. The researcher will meet you in your community. Total time will not exceed one hour. Free. For details, Carey: PayneWellnessCenter.abmp.com.

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Shiatsu Student Clinic – 9:30 & 10am. At our popular Advanced Student Clinic, clients can receive a 45-min session from an advanced Zen Shiatsu student. Sessions are performed in a group setting with instructor observation. Availability limited; call for appointments. Sessions must be paid in advance. Zen Shiatsu Chicago, 818 Lake St, Evanston. 847-864-1130. ZenShiatsuChicago.edu.

Tarot Readings – 4-8pm. With Lisa Maria. Ash & Willow, 610 Devon Ave, Park Ridge. 847-696-7560. AshWillowSalon.com/thenest.

Mobility and Mental Performance for Athletes – 5pm. With Julie Mackey. Major Sports Performance, 929 W Liberty Dr, Wheaton. Register: MajorSportsIL.com/recovery.

Hot Power – 5:30pm. With Dan Bulf. CorePower Yoga Winnetka, 850 Green Bay Rd, Winnetka. Tinyurl.com/zrx62jbd.

Community Healing Circle – 6pm. All welcome. Opens with a heart resonance meditation followed by reading each intention aloud while others practice focused silence. Closes with a restorative exercise to release, regenerate and renew. Free. Philosopher’s Stone Apothecary, 160 W Campbell St, Arlington Heights. 224-735-2355. PhilosophersStoneApothecary.com.

CoreRestore – 7pm. With Dan Bulf. CorePower Yoga Winnetka, 850 Green Bay Rd, Winnetka. Tinyurl.com/zrx62jbd.

Friday

AstroAshtanga – 8-9:15am. Do you love strength, stretching and astrology? Try this strong physical and energetic practice. $25. Kaizen House, 1321 Emerson St, Evanston. KaizenHouse.org.

Saturday

Deerfield Farmers Market – June 14-Oct 11. 7am-12:30pm. Park Ave between Jewett Park Dr and Hazel Ave. Deerfield.il.us/301/ Farmers-Market.

Green City Market: Lincoln Park – 7am1pm. Lincoln Park, 1817 N Clark St, Chicago. GreenCityMarket.org.

All-Level Vinyasa – 8am. With Dan Bulf. Heaven Meets Earth, 2746 Central St, Evanston. 847-475-1500. HeavenMeetsEarthYoga.com.

Green City Market: West Loop – Thru Nov. 8am-1pm. 900 W Monroe St, Chicago. GreenCityMarket.org.

Open Level Yoga – 9-10:15am. With Gosia. In Polish and English. $22. Northshore Healing Centre, 6185 N Canfield Ave, Chicago. 847-588-0370. nshealing.com.

Free Aura Reading – 11:15am-12:15pm. See Sun listing. Body & Brain, 1947 Cherry Ln, Northbrook. RSVP: 847-562-9642. BodyNBrain.com/northbrook.

Classifieds can help you sell goods and services and even attract employees for your business.

Akashic Consultation

AKASHIC RECORD READING – Open the record of your soul’s journey to find information to support you in your life right now, heal your past and help you into your future. Heal. Grow. Investigate. Find direction. Lin Ewing: 847-609-0034. AstrologicalDetails.com

For Hire

YOUR LISTING CAN BE HERE – Visit NAChicago.com/classifieds

For Rent/ Space Available

JAPANESE DECOR STUDIO IN ELK GROVE VILLAGE – Clean and currently available for hourly rental; classes or clients. Waterfall, fireplace, kitchenette. Close to major expressways. 847-593-6390.

Help Wanted

WE’RE HIRING – Harmonic Egg-Naperville is looking for someone who has experience in coaching or similar healing modalities, is compassionate and heart-centered, and excited to be part of a holistic, high-vibe environment. Plus, we’ll cover the cost of a Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Certification so you can be fully trained to offer this powerful healing service. Please send your resume to Contact@HarmonicEgg-Naperville.com

YOUR LISTING CAN BE HERE – Visit NAChicago.com/classifieds

Natural Supplements

ORGANIC HERBAL TEAS – Targeted Herbal Teas for the Pancreas, Lymph, Liver, Kidneys, Prostate, Lungs, Heart & More.  EarthSanaStore.com/Tea. 954-4591134. Samples available.

Services

YOUR LISTING CAN BE HERE – Visit NAChicago.com/classifieds

Connecting you to the leaders in natural health care and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide, email Peggy@NAChicago.com to request our media kit.

Acupuncture and Traditional Oriental Medicine

CALANDRA CENTER FOR HEALTH & WELLNESS

Teri Calandra, MSTOM, Dipl Acu, LAc, LMT, RMT

830 E. Higgins Rd, Unit 116, Schaumburg 312-796-3965

Facebook @CalandraAcuChi CalandraAcupuncture.com

We believe that when someone has the tools to help themselves that the possibilities are endless. Offering acupuncture, Traditional Chinese Medicine, herbal medicine, NAET allergy elimination, reiki, Access Consciousness, and a variety of wellness educational classes. Teri specializes in gynecological disorders, infertility, menopausal syndrome, musculoskeletal dysfunctions, allergies, respiratory disorders,  digestive disorders, thyroid disorders.

NIRVANA ACUPUNCTURE AND INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE

Lana Moshkovich, LAc, ND, MSOM 707 Lake Cook Rd, Ste 125, Deerfield 60015 847-715-9044

NirvanaNaturopathics.com

We specialize in resolving chronic pain including Fibromyalgia and Peripheral Neuropathy; severe chronic allergies for adults and children; fertility; autoimmune conditions; anxiety/depression; cosmetic acupuncture (anti-aging). To learn more about our clinic you can follow us on our YouTube channel: Dr.Lana@Nirvana AIM and Instagram: @nirvanaacu. Major insurance carriers accepted. Call 847-715-9044 to schedule your consultation so we can help you feel your best!

Bodywork

BECKY’S HEALING TOUCH AND SOUND 610 W Roosevelt Rd, Wheaton 60187 224-612-2400

RPMassage08@gmail.com

MassageBook.com/therapists/becky-shealing-touch-and-sound

With 17 years of experience in massage therapy and 2 years in sound healing, I offer separate, specialized services to support physical and emotional well-being. My massage practice focuses on therapeutic, client-centered care, while my sound healing sessions create a restorative space for relaxation, balance and inner alignment.

HEALTH CLARIFIED

Dr. Kimberly Henderson, DC 2165A Shermer Rd, Northbrook 60062 224-344-8668

HealthClarified.com

We take wellness to a deep level by combining alternative medicine modalities aimed at removing the obstacles that get in the way of your body's ability to heal. Therapies include red light, SoftWave and BrainTap; plus comprehensive bodywork and exercises, functional medicine, HBOT, Lymphatic Enhancement, EWOT, PEMF, footbaths, holistic skincare treatments and Synchronicity Wave System. See ads on pages 19 and 33.

ZEN SHIATSU CHICAGO

825 Chicago Ave, Evanston 60202

847-864-1130

ZenShiatsuChicago.edu

You’ll feel the stress melt away like the snow in spring through our relaxation-focused shiatsu massage practice, which offers the same energizing benefits as acupuncture combined with the restorative power of yoga poses. Dress in cozy threads, shiatsu is performed on fully clothed clients. Professional and student therapists available. See ad on back cover.

Community & Practitioner Hubs

AWAKE: ONENESS TRIBE

Suburban Chicagoland AwakeOnenessTribe.org

A nonprofit hub where seekers in the local community can come together, be heard, be seen, and be valued. AWAKE is a place where people can communicate freely, without fear of judgment, and participate in events to improve all aspects of health: physical, emotional, social, psychological, and spiritual. AWAKE acknowledges the value of being part of an open-minded community of people who are eager to learn and grow together. See ad on page 3.

Digestive Health Specialist

RENEÉ S. BARASCH, LDHS

Telehealth and In-Office

847-207-2034

DigestiveHealthSolutions.com

Digestive problems? Acid Reflux/GERD, IBS, Crohn’s, colitis? Let us help you naturally achieve nutritional balance, feel better and enhance the quality of your life. Improve digestion while reducing discomfort and bloating so you can eat the foods you love again. Certified digestive health specialist/ enzyme therapist. See ads on pages 7, 37 and 55.

Education

CONCORDIA

UNIVERSITY WISCONSIN

School of Pharmacy

CUW.edu/NPS

Take the next step toward a career that makes a difference! Discover your future in Natural Product Sciences with our flexible graduate programs. Choose from a 30-credit online master’s degree or a 12-credit graduate certificate, both designed to fit your life and goals. Specialize in medical cannabis or nutraceuticals, and prepare for exciting roles in healthcare, pharmacy, research and development, manufacturing, business and beyond. See ad on page 54.

Energy, Reiki & Sound Healing

HARMONIC EGG-NAPERVILLE

1801 N Mill St, Ste L, Naperville 60563 630-780-0193

HarmonicEgg-Naperville.com

Visit our center to experience the patented Harmonic Egg—a relaxing, non-invasive therapy using light and sound to reduce inflammation, relieve pain and calm your nervous system. Clients report better sleep, less stress and improved healing. Also available: state-of-the-art Hyperbaric Oxygen chamber. See ad on page 6.

HEALING WITH SARA MAE

Reiki Master Teacher

Hinsdale and Joliet HealingWithSaraMae.com

Reiki sessions, classes, mentorship and more to serve you on the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual levels. Sessions available worldwide remotely and in-person. Book your session or consult at HealingWithSaraMae.com

JOANN LYSIAK, ENERGY SPECIALIST

Joann Lysiak Gems 847-596-0274

Joann@JoannLysiakGems.com JoannLysiakGems.com

Visit the online store for high vibration gemstones and handcrafted jewelry with intention. Benefit from the gemstone energy properties to attract love, abun-dance or protect your energy from EMFs. Let me intuitively find the perfect gemstones for your needs or fine tune your energy to thrive.

Fresh Foods & Juices

FOREST GREENS JUICE BAR

123 N Waukegan Rd, Ste 100, Lake Bluff 60044

708-658-4231

ForestGreensJuiceBar.com

Forest Greens Juice Bar is dedicated to clean eating and healthy living. We use organic, gluten-free produce to make cold-pressed juices, smoothies, meals, and snacks—all made on-site. With options for everyone, including vegan choices, we prioritize wellness and sustainability for a vibrant, healthy lifestyle. See ad on page 35.

Functional Medicine

DR. ALLA ARUTCHEVA, MD, PHD, ND Antalee Wellness

1352 Patriot Blvd, Glenview 60026 847-486-1130 • AntaleeHolistic.com

If you are seeking integrative and natural approach to your whole-body health, Dr. Arutcheva will use her extensive knowledge, training and experience to work with you to create a personalized plan to prevent and overcome illness based on her strategy of health screening tests, state-of-the-art technology and the best natural supplements. These methods accelerate your ways to optimum health and prevent the development of serious chronic diseases.

INTEGRAL MED

340 W Butterfield Rd, Ste 3C, Elmhurst 60126 847-840-1806 • IntegralMed.us

Integral Med is a multidisciplinary medical practice that specializes in treating chronic health conditions by blending natural approaches and biohacking technologies. We help conditions such as fatigue, hormone imbalances, toxin removal, metabolism dysfunctions, gastrointestinal and autoimmune diseases and much more. Cutting-edge wellness therapies include HOCATT Sauna, Superhuman Protocol, Vibroacoustic Electromagnetic therapy, Ballancer Pro Lymphatic Suit, Acupuncture, Thermography and much more. See ad on page 27.

Garden and Native Plant Resources

POSSIBILITY PLACE NURSERY

7548 W Monee-Manhattan Rd, Monee 60449

708-534-3988

PossibilityPlace.com

Environmentally focused. Ecologically minded. Possibility Place Nursery has been Chicagoland’s native plant purveyor since 1983. We specialize in growing native plants from locally sourced ecotypes to increase biodiversity and improve ecological function of vast wild areas to small urban backyards, alike. We look forward to building habitat with you. See ad on page 29.

Healthy Home Inspection & Construction

HOLISTIC DWELLINGS LLC

Making Your Home a Sanctuary For Healing

John Lack: Certified Building Biologist, Electromagnetic Radiation Specialist, Environmental Consultant HolisticDwellingsLLC.com

Your home’s environment has a dramatic effect on your health. Electro-magnetic radiation, mold, geopathic stress, ion balance, VOCs, all affect the human body at the cellular level. Nature is the gold standard in which a healthy human-built indoor environment must be measured. Holistic Dwellings; EMF Assessment & Mitigation/New Build Consultant.

Holistic & Airway Dentistry

THE CENTER FOR DENTAL HEALING

Dr. Alla Aver, DDS & Dr. Irina Ganzman, DMD 2400 Ravine Way, Ste 400, Glenview 60025

847-998-5100 • GlenviewSmiles.com

Our office uses whole-body, preventive dental care. We utilize non-fluoridated ozonated water, herbal periodontal treatments, and gluten-free herbal paste. We offer: safe amalgam removal; BPA-free fillings and sealants; non-metal crowns; sleep apnea and TMJ appliances; ozone therapy; microscopic plaque analysis; material reactivity testing kits; and non-acrylic night guards, partials.

INTEGRATIVE DENTAL HEALTH

87 S McLean Blvd, South Elgin 60177

847-737-9109

IDH4U.com

Offering the highest quality holistic dental care possible for total body health. From biocompatible materials, to eliminating disease in the mouth and improving sleep quality, you can expect more than just a dental office. As Safe Cutting-Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique (S.M.A.R.T.) certified providers, we use the strictest protocols to protect you from the neurotoxic effects of mercury fillings.

K. BOEHM, DDS, & ASSOCIATES

1585 N Barrington Rd, Ste 106, Hoffman Estates 60069 847-884-1220

1440 Maple Ave, Ste 2A, Lisle 60532 630-810-1280 | KBoehmDDS.com

Offering state-of-the-art holistic dental care in a relaxed environment, Dr. Boehm and his staff are ready to meet all your dental needs in either of his two locations. Bio-compatible materials and an extensive knowledge of the correlation between oral and overall health are his specialties. Services include safe mercury removal, electrodermal screening for materials compatibility and tooth viability, crowns, bridges, dentures, zirconia implants, homeopathy, cranial osteopathy, orthodontics, ozone therapy, CT/3D imaging, and laser treatment for both gum disease and decay.

SIMONA BAREKET, DDS

HP SMILES DENTAL

489 Laurel Ave, Highland Park 60035 847-432-6501

HPSmilesDental.com

We are a holistic dental team focused on whole-person wellness rather than just your teeth. Dr. Simona works with empathy, care and a gentle touch. Services include cleanings and comprehensive exams, material biocompatibility testing, safe amalgam removal, ozone therapy, BPA-free restorations and non-metal crowns and implants.

WRIGLEYVILLE DENTAL

3256 N Ashland, Chicago 60657

773-975-6666 • WrigleyvilleDental.com

Chicago’s premier biological holistic dentists. Offering the latest technology, we provide ozone, lasers, same-daycrowns and BPA/fluoride-free nontoxic products. Several dentists on staff with unique specialties provide safe amalgam removal, PRF facials, orthodontics, TMJ, sleep/airway, children’s dentistry and countless other treatments. One home for all your dental needs. Free garage parking.

Holistic Health Practitioner

BIO-ENERGY CENTER

Kankakee Natural Foods

BioEnergy Center 815-933-6236 • KankakeeNaturalFoods.com

Our BioEnergy Center brings together state-of-the-art machines in one location for an integrative wellness experience. Our approach to healing meets each client’s unique needs through personalized testing and therapies. Come as you are, no appointment needed. Kankakee Natural Foods Wellness under One Roof.

Home Services

ALLUME FOUNDATION

Jody Casden, Home Organizer Chicagoland & Illinois River Valley 847-989-5721

AllumeFoundation@gmail.com What’s good for the home, is good for the heart. Our approach to space is conscientiousness and attention to detail, because we care. Make your space serve you well once again. Reach your goals quickly and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Proceeds support our mission and a schoolhouse renovation near Starved Rock State Park.

REFACING PROS, INC

David Casden, Owner  888 E Belvidere Rd, Ste 412,  Grayslake 60030

847-520-9763

RefacingPros.com

Could your kitchen or bathroom use an upgrade? Look and feel like new for a fraction of the cost. Refacing is a great green option. We will beat any competition for quality and value. Family owned and operated for over 25 years. We support Made in USA. Call today.

Integrative Psychotherapy

ELLEN KATZ, MS, LMFT

Clinical Director, Inner Balance Chicago, Palm Springs

847-224-0244 • EllenKatz.net

Ellen’s 30 years of experience as a psychotherapist integrates a conscious approach to healing old patterns through a mix of trauma and mindfulness-based psychotherapies, HMR, Lifeline, The Work (Byron Katie), energy medicine and somatic awareness. Join Meetup.com “Inner Balance Meditation” for updates on her events, and visit her at EllenKatz.net

Intuitive Consultation

HEATHER FAUN BASL

Intuitive, Medium & Healer 312-502-1539

Heather@HeatherFaunBasl.com

HeatherFaunBasl.com

Heather offers phone and text readings, mediumship, and remote energy healing to help you find clarity, peace, and direction. She bridges the spiritual and physical realms, offering connection, insight, support, healing and guidance tailored to your soul’s unique journey. 22 years of experience.

Lifelong Learning & Personal Growth

THE EDGAR CAYCE HOLISTIC CENTER AND BOOKSTORE

At Unity Northwest Church 259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines 60016 847-299-6535

AREChicagoCenter@gmail.com

Full-service bookstore, Cayce remedies, spiritual growth study groups, monthly programs, workshops and holistic fairs, intuitive skills development training, knowledgeable seekers, intuitives, healers and more. Call for hours. See ad on page 10.

INFINITY FOUNDATION

1280 Old Skokie Rd, Highland Park 60035

847-831-8828

• InfinityFoundation.org

Strawberry Full Moon Sound Healing, Live in-person, June 10. Closing Ceremony Celebrations, June 14, Live in-person, registration is required to attend. Estate Sale, June 19, 9am-4pm.

Martial Arts

AMERICAN TIGER KARATE

ACADEMY

1031 Bonaventure Dr, Elk Grove Village 60007

847-593-6390

AmericanTigerKarate.org

Traditional Japanese Martial Arts since 1995. Authentic Shotokan Karate and Okinawan Kobudo, excellent for self-defense but also connecting mind, body and spirit. Training exercises performed with mindfulness and proper breathing improve neuroplasticity while building quick reflexes, stance stability, balance and coordination.

Media

WCPT 820 AM

Streaming live:  HeartlandSignal.com/wcpt820

Chicago’s Progressive Talk is a whole lot more than just a radio station. It is a community of several hundred thousand people who are sustainably inclined, environmentally responsible, community conscious and socially engaged. Monday through Friday the program lineup features national show hosts who broadcast from various cities across America. From the very political, to the very serious, to almost-over-the-line edgy, they talk about what matters to you. On the weekends, specialty shows cover Chicago politics and much more. Listen on the radio or tune in online at HeartlandSignal.com/ wcpt820

Meditation & Spiritual Centers

CHICAGO MEDITATION CENTER OF SELF-REALIZATION FELLOWSHIP

946 N Harlem Ave, River Forest 60305

ChicagoMeditationCenter.org/ srflessons.org

Experience the power of spiritual community. All are welcome to join weekly inspirational services with yoga meditation each Sunday. Paramahansa Yogananda (18931952) founded Self-Realization Fellowship in 1920 to make available the universal teachings of Kriya Yoga, a sacred spiritual science originating millennia ago in India. See ad on page 9.

Medium, Psychic & Chakra

CHAKRA STUDIO

In-person and remote 474 Central Ave, Ste. 206, Highland Park 60035 847-744-3060 | 219-677-1629

PsychicChakraStudioIL.com

Let us be the first step on your journey to healing, spiritual awareness and emotional freedom. Explore spiritual healing and find clarity through chakra balancing, energy healing, tarot, sound and light therapies, readings and life coaching. Shop our boutique for curated crystals, candles, oils and other healing tools to enhance your energetic balance and well-being. See ad on page 21.

PSYCHIC READINGS GLENVIEW

2834 Golf Rd, Glenview 60025

847-470-0049

PsychicsReadingsGlenview.com

Discover the transformative power of psychic healing. In one session, Psychic Sarah can unlock your dormant healing energy and guide you towards a path of true rejuvenation and self-discovery. 30+ years’ experience in psychic, tarot and astrology readings, chakra balancing and spiritual counsel. New clients save 50% on first visit.

Men’s Health & Wellness

CHICAGO MALE CLINIC

Jerry Garcia, PA-C 4801 W Peterson Ave, Ste 506, Chicago 60646

773-414-9900 • ChicagoMaleClinic.com

Chicago Male Clinic (CMC) is a holistic health and wellness center for men providing a natural integrated approach to improving men’s sexual health. CMC offers therapeutic massage, exercise and stretch therapy, men’s yoga classes, patient coaches and trainers.  CMC offers a natural approach to treating erectile difficulties (ED) with its Acoustic Wave Therapy. Call for your complimentary, in-person consultation (valued at $225.). Book your first appointment at ChicagoMaleClinic.com See ad on page 13.

Midwifery

MOON PHASES OF LIFE MINISTRY

Sacred Wise Woman, Amy Luebke

224-730-1940

MoonPhasesOfLife@gmail.com

MoonPhasesOfLife.com

Holistic sovereign support for every stage of life. Offering homebirth midwifery, placenta encapsulation, naturopathy, botanical remedies, reiki, teen wellness and first moon ceremonies, end-of-life support, bereavement, travel phlebotomy and functional testing. I honor your autonomy, accepting HSA/FSA, insurance for labs and tests, and provide superbills. Visit MoonPhasesOfLife.com to embrace your journey naturally. See ad on page 13.

Pet Wellness

DOGS4LIFE TRAINING & WELLNESS

Stop Guessing Start Solving Pet Sensitivity Testing

630-901-4597 | Dogs4Life.com

Is your dog struggling with digestive issues, itchy skin or irritability? They may be suffering from food sensitivities. The Whole Pet Wellness Profile tests 750+ food and environmental factors to uncover hidden triggers. Paired with custom meal plans, we provide a clear path to better health, improved digestion and lasting relief.

Reflexology

JASMIN REFLEXOLOGY

773-979-5351

JJahal@hotmail.com

JasminReflexology.com

Reflexology is a wellness protocol that stimulates the nervous system by applying precise, alternating pressure to the feet or hands. It helps your body relieve stress, improve sleep, lower blood pressure, balance hormones and reduce chronic pain. Jasmin is nationally certified and a recognized educator. Call for a free consultation. See ad on page 17.

Skeletal Strengthening

OSTEOSTRONG

126 Skokie Rd, Wilmette 60091 224-408-2369

195 W Golf Rd, Schaumburg, 60195 224-208-8616

OsteoStrong.me

OsteoStrong is an Integrative Health and Wellness Center with a focus on musculoskeletal strengthening. The 4-device circuit takes only minutes once per week to complete. Under the direction of a skilled technician, users engage in a safe, controlled, movement that results in a stimulus to the central nervous system triggering osteogenesis or new bone growth. See ad on page 31.

Tree Care

BARTLETT TREE EXPERTS

Serving Chicagoland 877-227-8538

• Bartlett.com

Expert tree care for 117 years and growing. Specializing in pruning, fertilization, cabling and bracing, insect and disease management, tree inspections, storm damage repair, lightning protection and removals. Visit our website to schedule your complimentary appointment with a Bartlett Arborist Representative. We’re here for every tree. See ad on page 23.

Wellness Centers

INSPIRE YOGA AND WELLNESS

1100 Nerge Rd, Ste 208, Elk Grove Village 60007 312-593-4366

InspireYogaWellness.com

At our wellness sanctuary, we focus on healing rather than just treating symptoms. We dig deep to find the root cause of your issues and look at all four aspects of health: physical, mental, emotional and spiritual. We offer personalized health coaching, iridology, yoga, meditation, infrared sauna and more. See listing on page 36.

Stop playing WHACK-A-MOLE with your digestion .

Many people live with unresolved gas, bloating, belching, constipation, diarrhea, cravings and poor sleep. Have you tried remedies and recommendations that just leave you feeling the same? With over 2,500 happily-resolved clients, relief is just a phone call away.

BEGINNING ZEN SHIATSU

2-Weekend Intensive

July 11-13 and 18-20 - Fri 7-10pm, Sat/Sun 9:30am-4:30pm

10-Week Sessions

Jun 16 - Aug 18, Mondays 10am-1pm Jun 18 - Aug 20, Wednesdays 7-10pm

zenshiatsu.edu/ce/beginning_zen_shiatsu/ E-mail info@zenshiatsu.edu or call 847-864-1130 to sign up today!

www.zenshiatsu.edu 818 Lake Street, Evanston, IL